The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to maintain a "reasonable" temperature in indoor workplaces.
There is currently no upper temperature limit set in law. However, employers have a legal duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees and should take appropriate action when temperatures become uncomfortable or present a risk to health. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises employers to assess risks and implement measures to protect workers from excessive heat.
Certain groups may be particularly vulnerable during hot weather, including:
- Pregnant employees
- Employees with underlying health conditions
- Older workers
- Outdoor workers
- Employees required to wear PPE or heavy uniforms
Employers should ensure these risks are considered within their health and safety arrangements.
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1. Carry out a heat risk assessment
Not all workplaces are affected by heat in the same way. Employers should assess how high temperatures could impact employees, particularly those working outdoors, undertaking physical work or who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness.
A simple review of ventilation, access to drinking water, exposure to direct sunlight and any employee-specific risks can help identify where additional support may be needed.
2. Offer flexibility where possible
Heatwaves can make commuting difficult and affect productivity, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. Where practical, consider offering temporary flexibility around working hours or allowing employees to work from home.
Even small adjustments can help employees stay comfortable, productive and engaged.
3. Keep the workplace cool and comfortable
While there is no legal maximum workplace temperature in the UK, employers still have a duty to provide a safe working environment.
Providing cold drinking water, improving ventilation, using blinds and encouraging regular breaks can all help employees cope with high temperatures. Relaxing dress codes may also be appropriate where health and safety requirements allow.
4. Take extra care with outdoor workers
Employees working outdoors face greater risks during extreme heat and prolonged sun exposure. Employers should review working arrangements and consider whether physically demanding tasks can be carried out during cooler parts of the day.
Practical measures might include:
• Providing shaded areas for breaks.
• Supplying hats, UV-protective clothing and sunscreen.
• Rotating tasks to reduce prolonged sun exposure.
• Adjusting working patterns so employees can start earlier and avoid the hottest part of the day.
• Ensuring workers have access to drinking water and regular rest breaks.
Managers should also know how to recognise the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke (NHS) and respond quickly if concerns arise.
5. Communication is key
When temperatures rise, clear communication becomes even more important. Employees should understand what measures are being put in place to support them and know who to speak to if they have concerns.
Employers should keep teams informed of any temporary changes to working arrangements, dress codes or workplace practices during periods of extreme heat. Encouraging employees to share feedback can also help identify issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Employees are more likely to feel valued and supported when they can see their wellbeing is being actively considered. In turn, this can help strengthen trust, engagement and loyalty across the workforce.
6. Remember working parents
Extreme weather can create challenges outside the workplace too. Recent heatwaves have seen some schools shorten days, cancel activities or make temporary operational changes, leaving parents needing alternative childcare arrangements at short notice.
A flexible and understanding approach can make a significant difference. Temporary changes to working hours, home working arrangements or agreed time off may help employees manage unexpected disruption while continuing to support the business.
How can employers prepare for future heatwaves?
Heatwaves are becoming a more regular feature of UK summers. Employers that plan ahead and take a proactive approach to employee wellbeing will be better placed to protect their people and maintain business continuity when temperatures rise.
