What is the legal temperature to work in?

Employment law solicitor, Hilary Burgess, discusses the topic of workplace temperature and what is the legal temperature to work in?

With weather warnings being issued and the Health and Safety Executive calling on employers to protect workers during extreme hot weather, we thought it would be useful to discuss the issue of temperature in the workplace.

Temperature law at work

Employers are required to ensure that indoor temperatures are ‘reasonable’.

Employers must also assess the risks to workers and put in controls to protect them.

Is there a minimum temperature?

Yes, an Approved Code of Practice has specified a minimum limit of 16 degrees for workplace temperature (or 13 degrees in circumstances where work involves severe physical effort).

Working in high temperatures - what is the maximum temperature?

Conversely, there is no maximum limit in relation to temperature. Nevertheless, it is worth bearing in mind that heat is categorised as a hazard and as such employers should, when assessing risks to health and safety, include risks of extreme weather.

What measures can employers consider taking during hot weather?

Various organisations such as ACAS and the Health and Safety Executive have issued guidance about measures that employers can potentially take to mitigate the adverse effects of the hot weather. Such measures may not be relevant or appropriate for all organisations but include the following:

• Altering working patterns so employees work at cooler times in the day.
• relaxing dress code requirements
• Using air conditioning or fans where available. Alternatively, closing blinds or moving employees away from direct sunlight.
• Providing cold water.

If you have concerns over workplace temperature, or other working conditions, Holmes & Hills employment solicitors are able to advise employers and employees on their specific situations. Employers utilising our retainer service can request advice on this issue are part of the service.