With temperatures soaring up to 40°C in the UK, the Met Office issued its first Red warning for exceptional heat on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th July.
Employee rights and UK laws have sparked debate over whether employees can request to work from home or leave the workplace during the heatwave.
So, can you leave work if it’s too hot?
Ringwood law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors warns there is no maximum temperature staff can demand to go home due to a heatwave and what to expect this week.
Kate Brooke, Partner and Head of Employment at Ellis Jones, said: “The heat is on in workplaces. How hot is too hot? That is the question as people begin to ask at what temperature it is too warm to work.
“It is a myth that such a figure exists and ultimately it is up to the employer to decide whether the workplace temperature is suitable for workers.”
The Workplace Regulations of 1992 state employers have a responsibility to ensure that conditions are ‘reasonable’ for workers although there is no stated temperature threshold.
Brooke said: “Employers are required to keep the ‘temperature at a comfortable level’ and for providing ‘clean and fresh air’.
“Employees are urged to talk to their managers if the workplace temperature is uncomfortable.”
Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Paul Gundersen, said: “It is important people plan for the heat and consider changing their routines. This level of heat can have adverse health effects.”
Whilst there is no law on maximum working temperatures, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) which represents 5.5 million working people, urges employers to make sure staff are protected from the sun and heat.
The TUC is hoping to see a change in the law where employers attempt to reduce temperatures if above 24°C and indoor work is stopped at 30°C, or 27°C for strenuous jobs.
TUC General Secretary, Frances O’Grady, said: “Working in sweltering conditions in a baking shop or stifling office can be unbearable and dangerous.
“Indoor workplaces should be kept cool, with relaxed dress codes and flexible working to make use of the coolest hours of the day.
“And bosses must make sure outdoor workers are protected with regular breaks, lots of fluids, plenty of sunscreen and the right protective clothing.”
For all updates on the UK heatwave, follow Met Office updates: www.twitter.com/metofficeUK.
