Latest news with #Workplace(Health
Scotsman
2 days ago
- Climate
- Scotsman
When is it too hot to work in the UK?
As the UK swelters under a fierce heatwave, workers face tough conditions on the job 🔥 Sign up to our Scotsman Money newsletter, covering all you need to know to help manage your money. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... UK temperatures could hit 34°C this weekend, with heat-health alerts in place nationwide No legal maximum workplace temperature exists under current UK law TUC is calling for a legal limit of 30°C for indoor work, 27°C for strenuous jobs Employers must take 'reasonable' steps to protect workers during extreme heat Prolonged high temperatures pose serious health risks, especially for outdoor and vulnerable workers With the UK on track to break its record for the warmest day of the year for the second day running, concerns about working conditions in the heat are once again making headlines. On Thursday (June 19), temperatures soared to 32.2°C in Kew, west London — and could reach up to 33°C on Friday. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad This blistering heat has triggered the UK's first amber heat-health alert of the year, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The alert, which covers all of England and runs until 9am Monday, warns of 'significant impacts' on health and social care services, with vulnerable groups — particularly the elderly and those with medical conditions — most at risk. With much of the country sweltering under an intense hot spell, many workers are asking: when is it officially too hot to work? (Photo:) | Getty Images When is it too hot to work in the UK? Unlike some countries, the UK does not currently have a legal maximum temperature for workplaces. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad While the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to ensure a 'reasonable' temperature, there's no clear upper limit in law. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has long campaigned for legislation that would make it illegal to work indoors in temperatures above 30°C (or 27°C for those doing strenuous work). But as it stands, employers are expected to carry out risk assessments and take 'reasonable steps' to reduce heat-related risks. This might include relaxing dress codes, adjusting working hours, improving ventilation, or allowing more frequent breaks. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The current heatwave — potentially peaking at 34°C on Saturday — meets the Met Office's official criteria in many regions, meaning temperatures have hit or exceeded thresholds (ranging from 25°C to 28°C depending on location) for three consecutive days. These sustained high temperatures can pose serious risks, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunstroke. Outdoor workers — such as those in construction, agriculture, or delivery roles — are particularly exposed, while those working in poorly ventilated indoor environments may also be at risk. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends employers take action to manage these risks but stops short of enforcing a specific maximum working temperature. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Employees who feel unsafe or unwell due to heat can raise concerns with their manager or union representative. In extreme cases, they may be protected under Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, which allows workers to remove themselves from dangerous work environments. So while there's no official line in the sand, common sense and compassion should dictate when enough is enough.
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Climate
- Scottish Sun
Too hot to work? Your rights on when you should be sent home in Scotland as temperatures set to soar in heatwave
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SCOTLAND has already had more sunshine this year than the whole of last summer. The Met Office say record books may need to be rewritten if temperatures continue to soar. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Scotland is set to be hit by a two-day heatwave Credit: Getty And temperatures are set to continue to ramp up over the next 48 hours. Scotland's warmest day of 2025 so far was recorded in Lossiemouth, Moray, on June 13 as it reached 25.7C. But forecasters expect the mercury to push even nearer towards 30C this weekend. Tomorrow and Saturday, it is anticipated to hit 27C Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Perth, and Stirling. Similar toasty temperatures are expected to be recorded across much of Scotland on Saturday. It's all fun and games when you're off to enjoy the weather but what are your rights at work in this sizzling heat? Here's everything we know... Can you go home from work if it gets too hot? 4 What are your rights at work in this sizzling heat? Credit: Alamy The Scottish Trades Union Congress wants to make it illegal to keep people at work indoors if the temperature is above 30C, and put protection in place for people working outside or driving for a living. Unfortunately, there isn't a legally defined maximum or minimum temperature for offices yet. But your employer is responsible for "keeping the temperature at a comfortable level" and there are rules that could allow you to leave if the office is too hot. Simple five-second rule to see if it's too hot to walk your dog and how to tell the four-legged friend has had a heatstroke, expert reveals The TUC says: "When the workplace gets too hot it is more than just an issue about comfort. "If the temperature goes too high then it can become a health and safety issue. If people get too hot, they risk dizziness, fainting, or even heat cramps. "In very hot conditions the body's blood temperature rises. If the blood temperature rises above 39C, there is a risk of heat stroke or collapse. Delirium or confusion can occur above 41C. "Blood temperatures at this level can prove fatal and even if a worker does recover, they may suffer irreparable organ damage." According to the HSE: "A meaningful maximum figure cannot be given due to the high temperatures found in, for example, glass works or foundries." The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which lays down particular requirements for most aspects of the working environment, states that: 'During working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable." The HSE explains: 'If a significant number of employees are complaining about thermal discomfort, your employer should carry out a risk assessment, and act on the results of that assessment.' If you're a vulnerable employee – for example if you're pregnant or are undergoing the menopause, or if you need to wear protective equipment at work so can't take off layers - that also has to be taken into account. So the answer is simple – if you're uncomfortable, tell your boss and if enough people complain then they have to act. Can you go home in the hot weather if you work outside? 4 Is it too hot to do physical labour outside? Credit: Getty The health and safety temperature laws only apply to "indoor workplaces" - so what if you work outside, in the agricultural or construction industries? Again, no maximum temperature has been set - but employers are legally obligated to conduct risk assessments on workplaces to ensure that temperatures are 'reasonable'. In 2013, Army reservists Lance Corporal Roberts, Lance Corporal Maher and Corporal Dunsby all died as a result of heat exhaustion after a training session in the Brecon Beacons. The HSE launched an investigation of the Ministry of Defence, and found that there had been a failure to plan, assess and manage risks associated with climatic illness during the training. The exercise should have been called off hours before when temperatures reached record highs, they said. The HSE were unable to prosecute the MoD because it is a government body, but the case highlights the duty of care on the employer. Employers should ensure their workers have access to water and monitor the health of their employees in hot conditions, according to HSE guidelines. If you have concerns that it's too hot to do physical labour outside, do raise these with your employer. Can you keep your kids home from school if it is too hot? 4 You could get into trouble for keeping your kids off school in the heatwave Credit: Alamy During a heatwave in 2013, school teachers called for maximum legal temperatures to be set in classrooms over fears that it was too hot for the kids. At the time, general secretary of the NASUWT teaching union Chris Keates said heatwave temperatures make pupils lethargic, affect concentration and can lead to fainting. The union called for a maximum classroom temperature of 30C - which would see kids sent home if thermometers rose above this level. However, the law remained the same - and, as with term-time holidays, you could get into trouble for keeping your kids off school in the heatwave. Parents should make sure their kids are well equipped in a heatwave, with a hat and sunscreen if they are likely to be playing outdoors. Many schools relax uniform rules during the summer months.
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Climate
- Scottish Sun
Can I refuse to work outdoors in hot weather? Rules and rights explained
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WITH temperatures rising across the UK, many outdoor workers are questioning their rights when the sun beats down. So, can you legally refuse to work in the heat? The answer isn't as clear-cut as you might hope, but the rules are there to protect you. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Employers must ensure safe working environments in all weather Credit: Getty This issue applies across the UK, where the law does not set a maximum working temperature. That includes outdoor environments, where hot conditions can make even routine tasks feel unbearable — and at times, unsafe. While you can't simply walk off the job when the sun is out, employers are expected to take reasonable steps to protect your health. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 makes it the employer's legal duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees while they're at work. It doesn't lay down an exact temperature limit for when it becomes too hot to work outdoors, but that doesn't mean there are no protections. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 also require employers to provide a working environment that is 'reasonable' and safe. This idea of 'reasonable' is open to interpretation. But guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) offers some benchmarks. For example, they suggest that indoor workplaces should be at least 16°C, or 13°C if the job involves heavy physical work. Unfortunately, there's no legal upper limit — even when it comes to working outside under direct sun. Cheap hacks to stay cool this summer John Kushnick, legal operations director at National Accident Helpline, explained: 'Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold.' However, just because there's no specific temperature cut-off doesn't mean you're without support. Employers are still expected to carry out risk assessments when working conditions could pose a hazard. This becomes especially important during a heatwave. If a significant number of staff complain about the temperature, employers must take action. The HSE advises that employers should look out for symptoms of heat stress in their staff, which can include fatigue, fainting, heat rash, and in more serious cases, heat stroke. Working in the heat can also affect your ability to concentrate and complete physical tasks safely. During hot spells, employers are encouraged to make adjustments. That might mean changing working hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day, making sure staff have access to water and shaded areas, or even relaxing dress codes to help workers stay cool. In cases where someone is particularly vulnerable, such as pregnant employees or those with health conditions, alternative arrangements — like working indoors — should be considered. If an employer fails to act and the working environment becomes dangerously hot, workers may have some legal backing to refuse unsafe work. Under Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, employees can withdraw from a work situation if they believe there is serious and imminent danger. But this should not be done lightly. It's important to report your concerns first and allow your employer the chance to make changes. In colder conditions, the same principles apply. The risks might be different — frostbite, hypothermia, or slips on icy surfaces — but the responsibility remains the same. Employers must ensure safe working environments in all weather. That could mean providing warm clothing, hot drinks, or delaying work when conditions are extreme. Thermal comfort is not just about the temperature on a thermometer. It includes factors like humidity, wind, clothing, and how physically demanding the work is. That's why employers should carry out regular risk assessments and adjust conditions where necessary to avoid putting staff at risk.
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Office rights explained: What temperature is too hot to work in?
FEELING HOT HOT HOT Office rights explained: What temperature is too hot to work in? THE UK is basking in glorious sunshine with temperatures set to peak at over 30 degrees Celsius in parts. The Met Office has said a heatwave is "likely" this weekend with sunshine continuing into next week. Advertisement 1 We explain your rights when it comes to working during warmer weather But what are your rights when it comes to working during hot weather? We explain everything you need to know below. What rights do I have if it's too hot in the office? There's no minimum or maximum temperature for offices or other places of work currently defined in law. Employers have to make sure conditions are "reasonable" - but that definition is obviously open to interpretation. Advertisement John Kushnick, legal operations director at National Accident Helpline said: "Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "They suggest that the minimum temperature in a workplace should be at least 16°C, or if the work involves rigorous physical exertion, it can be 13°C. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold." The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has previously suggested bosses should ensure their workers have access to water and monitor their wellbeing in hot weather. Advertisement Typical symptoms of heat stress are: An inability to concentrate Muscle cramps Heat rash Severe thirst - a late symptom of heat stress Fainting Heat exhaustion - fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin Heat stroke - hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness. This is the most severe disorder and can result in death if not detected at an early stage However, if enough members of staff complain about working conditions, bosses should carry out a risk assessment. The HSE says: 'If a significant number of employees are complaining about thermal discomfort, your employer should carry out a risk assessment, and act on the results of that assessment.' John adds: "If an employee feels uncomfortable, then they should speak to their employer as they are obliged to act reasonably and provide a safe working environment." Advertisement If you're a vulnerable staff member - including being menopausal or pregnant - you should take this into account when deciding on a plan of action. You may not get to work from home, though. Instead, the business might provide fans, relax dress codes, turn up the air conditioning, or consider other measures to make things more comfortable. What are the temperature recommendations? The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers recommends the following temperatures for different working areas: Advertisement Heavy work in factories: 13°C Light work in factories: 16°C Hospital wards and shops: 18°C Offices and dining rooms: 20°C What are my rights if I need to take public transport? Each transport company sets its own policies - and like with offices, there's no law about temperatures during a heatwave. This can mean that travellers face extremely high temperatures when out and about. For example, in 2018, Londoners complained of 42C temperatures on the Tube. Transport for London however has since said all Tubes will be air-conditioned by 2030. Advertisement If you are travelling on public transport, make sure you bring a bottle of water with you, and if possible, wear cool, loose, and light clothing. People are sharing their best "air con" hacks to keep cool in the heatwave and all you need is a bottle of water. If you're sat at work wincing in pain at sunburn caught over the weekend, here's five ways to soothe it. Keeping safe in the sun Wear clothes and sunglasses that provide sun protection The NHS website recommends wearing a hat that that shades the face, neck and ears and breathable fabrics that do not let the sunlight through. Drink water Staying hydrated in the warmer weather is also important. Be sure to carry a water bottle with you if you are travelling and taking sips throughout the day. Use suncream According to the NHS webiste, adults should aim to apply around 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen if you're covering your entire body. If sunscreen is applied too thinly, the amount of protection it gives is not as effective If you're worried you might not be applying enough SPF30, you could use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.
Scottish Sun
13-06-2025
- Climate
- Scottish Sun
When is it too hot to work? Office rights explained for workers
Here's what workers are entitled to as temperatures soar HOT DESK When is it too hot to work? Office rights explained for workers Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TEMPERATURES continue to rise, and many will be feeling hot under their work collars. The MET Office has forecast that temperatures could hit up to 28C across some parts of the UK. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Woman cools down using a fan and water bottle in a hot office Yet while these balmy conditions may feel like we're on holiday, for those who have to face days in the office and can't be with a fan at home, these are your rights when it gets too hot to work. When is it too hot to work? Unfortunately, it's not simple. Firstly, there's no minimum or maximum temperature for offices or other places of work defined by law. But, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has said: "An employer must provide a working environment which is, as far as is reasonably practical, safe and without risks to health." The issue is that this definition of what is "reasonable" and "safe" is debatable. National Accident Helpline legal operations director John Kushnick said: "Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "They suggest that the minimum temperature in a workplace should be at least 16°C, or if the work involves rigorous physical exertion, it can be 13°C. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold." But if a workplace does feel too hot, there are some typical signs to look out for if it feels like someone is suffering from heat stress: An inability to concentrate Muscle cramps Heat rash Severe thirst - a late symptom of heat stress Fainting Heat exhaustion - fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin Heat stroke - hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness. This is the most severe disorder and can result in death if not detected at an early stage Bosses should undertake a risk assessment if enough staff complain about working conditions. The independent health and safety regulator also said: 'If a significant number of employees are complaining about thermal discomfort, your employer should carry out a risk assessment, and act on the results of that assessment.' The HSE has previously suggested bosses should ensure their workers have access to water and monitor their wellbeing in hot weather. What's more, if a staff member is deemed vulnerable, such as those going through menopause or who are pregnant, this should be taken into account. In this instance, vulnerable employees may need to work from home. But this is not possible for everyone, and so businesses may need to adapt. Fans, relaxed dress codes, or turning up the air conditioning are all measures that can make the office environment more comfortable. What are the temperature recommendations? The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers has helpfully recommended the following temperatures for different areas of work. Heavy work in factories: 13°C Light work in factories: 16°C Hospital wards and shops: 18°C Offices and dining rooms: 20°C If you have to take public transport, what are your rights? Much like in the office, these are up for debate as each transport company can set its own policies, and so during a heatwave, there are no laws about temperatures. Therefore, over the coming weeks, travellers are in for some pretty hot journeys. And while Transport for London has said all Tubes will be air-conditioned by 2030, let's not forget the extremely high temperatures Londoners face on the Tube, with commuters claiming they experienced conditions of 42C in 2018! So until the time that commuting is not like walking into an oven, it is recommended that travellers take water bottles and, if possible, wear loose-fitting clothing which is cool and light. Commuters who travel by car are also sharing tips to save money and stay cool when travelling. There are also easy ways to fight the heat at home with some "air con" hacks.
