Workplace temperatures - Is it too cold or hot to be at work?
With the cold weather making an appearance again we thought it might be a good time to talk about workplace temperatures.
Whilst some employers are still open to employees working from home or hybrid working, it is important to understand the legal requirements for temperatures in the workplace for those that are required to attend the workplace, are unable to carry out their role at home or where hybrid working is not something the employer offers.
The simple answer is there is no legal requirement for the workplace to be a certain temperature, in cold or hot weather. However, there is guidance, and it is important to keep the temperature at a comfortable level for employees in accordance with Health and Safety Regulations.
The Approved Code of Practice on the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations suggest that the minimum temperature for working indoors should be 16 degrees or 13 degrees if the work involves physical effort. 16 degrees may still feel cold to some, and as most employers will know there is often a battle, especially an office environment, as to what the most comfortable temperature is.
There is no maximum temperature for workplaces. However, all workers are entitled to an environment where risks to their health and safety are properly controlled. Heat is classed as a hazard and comes with legal obligations like any other hazard.
As the recommended temperatures are not a legal requirement it is up to an employer to decide what amounts to a comfortable temperature in the context of their workplace. For example a bakery, office, warehouse or cold storage could all reasonably be expected to have varying temperatures.
Some practical tips for employers to consider in cold temperatures:
- Allow employees to wear cardigans/ jumpers in the workplace
- Provide heaters. Although, it is important to ensure heaters are PAT tested and employees know to turn them off at the end of the day
- Allow staff to work from home if their job enables them to
- Allow adequate rest breaks for employees to make hot drinks
Some practical tips for employers to consider in hot temperatures:
- Allow staff to have regular breaks to have cool drinks
- Allow a relaxed dress code to enable staff to wear loose, light clothing
- Allow staff flexible working hours to avoid working in the hottest part of the day
We have a very experienced Civil Litigation team that can help you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding this or any other workplace problems you may be experiencing.
