Temperature in the workplace: working safely in hot conditions
There's no law for maximum working temperature, or when it's too hot to work. In offices or similar environments, the temperature in workplaces must be reasonable. Employers must stick to health and safety at work law, including:
keeping the temperature at a comfortable level, sometimes known as thermal comfort
providing clean and fresh air
The HSE's thermal comfort checklist (PDF) can help you identify whether there may be a risk of thermal discomfort in your workplace. Employees should talk to their employer if the workplace temperature isn't comfortable. There is guidance on what you can do to feel more comfortable. Working safely in hot conditions It is important to remember the risks of overheating when working in hot conditions, whether you are inside or outdoors. Our website has practical guidance on what you can do to manage the risks, including:
Information on factors that can lead to heat stress, and how to reduce the risk of it occurring
Managing outdoor working environments
Further information and advice is available from the HSE here Pregnant workers HSE has also issued new advice on pregnant workers to the effect that there must be an individual risk assessment.
