The UK is bracing for another heatwave starting this weekend, with temperatures expected to reach 34C or higher. Amber heat health alerts have been issued for several regions in England, including the east, South East, South West, and London, from 12pm on Thursday until 8pm on Tuesday.
There is a common misconception among employees that there is a legal maximum temperature for workplaces in the UK. While there is no specific temperature considered “too hot” to work in, employers are still responsible for ensuring the safety of their staff.
According to employment lawyer Natalie Peacock from Rogers and Norton, extreme heat is increasingly becoming a workplace concern in the UK. Employers are not mandated to have air conditioning, but they are required by law to take reasonable measures to maintain a safe working environment.
Peacock emphasized that employers should conduct risk assessments during heatwaves, offer extra breaks, ensure proper hydration and cooling facilities, consider ventilation, provide shade for outdoor workers, and possibly supply suncream and fans to employees. Workers struggling in the heat may request flexible hours or permission to work from home during peak heat hours.
Employers should continue to protect their employees even when working remotely by conducting home office risk assessments and potentially offering fans for home use.