As we are experiencing a flux in temperatures now – with some days reaching above 30 degrees, it is vital as an employer to ensure the workplace temperature is reasonable.
While there is no law for a maximum working temperature in the UK for when it is too hot to work, employers need to stick to health and safety laws. These include:
- Maintaining the temperature at a comfortable level, also known as a thermal comfort
- Providing fresh and clean air into the office
Employees need to talk to their employer if the workplace temperature is not comfortable.
But employers should note the six basic factors that can usually cause discomfort.
The environmental factors include:
- Air temperature
- Air velocity
- Humidity
- Radiant temperature
The personal factors include:
- Clothing Insulation
- Metabolic heat
How can employers combat the heat wave?
- Implement earlier finishes
- Open the windows
- Provide enough fans for staff is no air conditioner
- Provide shaded areas for outdoor work
- Provide water
- Relax the dress code
- Should your employees do manual labour outside, consider altering lunch hours to make sure they are not working at the hottest time of the day
These steps may seem simple, but they can make a dramatic difference to your employees’ comfort at work, which will see productivity increase and reduce the potential for grievances.
Samantha Randall, an Employment Law expert at Palmers, said: “To ensure your employees are comfortable in the workplace during the heatwave, speak to them about their requirements for tackling the heat, as not everyone will be the same.
You must also ensure you follow health and safety laws so that your employees are looked after during the increased temperatures.”
For guidance on employment law, contact our expert team today.