As are we experiencing a rise in hot temperatures, we remind you of your legal obligations to protect your staff and in particular those who have health conditions or who are pregnant.
There is no legislation for maximum working temperature because every business is different, suffice to say the temperature must be reasonable.
What is reasonable depends upon the work being carried out and the environmental conditions involved.
To ensure compliance with health and safety legislation, it is sensible to review your responsibilities, which can include:
- Reviewing and updating risk assessments
- Ensuring staff have access to air conditioning or fans if they work indoors
- Making sure windows are open
- Allowing for more breaks
- Adjusting work load
- Adjusting working hours – for those staff who work outside it may be reasonable for an employer to adjust the working hours so staff can work in the cooler hours
- Having regard to whether any reasonable adjustments need to be made specifically for pregnant employees or those with medical conditions including the menopause as hot weather can exacerbate symptoms
The HSE provide helpful guidance: Temperature in the workplace: Is it too cold or hot to work?
Not yet an NFU Employment Service member? Join today and take advantage of a host of guidance to support you navigating the complex world of employment law.
You'll also receive access to a wide range of member benefits – with discounts ranging from cars to health insurance.
For more information, call us on 0370 840 0234 or email us at [email protected]
