Legal expert weighs in on whether you can stop working if it’s too hot | UK | News

With temperatures soaring across the UK this summer, with a heatwave predicted to bring temperatures of up to 38 degrees, one legal expert is calling on the UK to examine how it can better protect workers from heat-related illness and injury.

During periods of extreme heat, many workers find themselves searching for the rules on temperatures considered ‘too hot to work in’. Currently, workplace temperatures are governed by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which obliges employers to maintain a ‘reasonable’ temperature in the workplace.

While a minimum temperature is established, there is no upper limit set at which conditions become too hot to work. The current Labour government is considering introducing such a threshold, however this early heatwave suggests it may be a case of too little too late – according to John Kushnick, Legal Director at National Accident Helpline.

Addressing the matter, Kushnick commented: “The fact is that without a legal maximum, many people will feel pressured to continue working when it is not safe to do so.

“National Accident Helpline’s own data shows that a staggering 41% feel pressured to cut corners on safety in order to get the job done faster, and 56% say that health and safety in their workplace is more box-ticking than genuine care.

“Put simply, without enforced policies, employees will continue feeling uncared for and forced to work when it is unsafe to do so.”

The expert added: “If an employer neglects their responsibilities and someone is injured, that person may be able to claim compensation.”

What is expected of employers during hot weather?

According to Kushnick, employers are expected to do whatever is ‘reasonably practicable’ to protect their workers’ wellbeing, and must provide a safe environment where staff are not at risk of falling ill due to the heat.

He said: “They must also take into consideration those with existing health conditions or vulnerabilities and provide reasonable adjustments.

“If the temperature within the workplace rises to over 28 degrees, then it may have become too hot to safely work.”

Where is the danger of hot workplaces?

As temperatures soar, those most at risk of overheating are workers employed outdoors or on transport networks.

Construction sites are exposed to the scorching sun throughout the day, while on the Underground temperatures can reach as high as 40 degrees. In such conditions, concentration becomes severely impaired and operating machinery grows increasingly hazardous, significantly raising the likelihood of errors occurring.

Measures such as the large fans positioned in tube stations are unlikely to make any meaningful impact on the stifling heat.

Even office workers are not immune to the risks. Britain’s ageing buildings, many lacking adequate air conditioning, present their own hazards.

Spending extended periods in excessive temperatures, even while seated, heightens the risk of heatstroke and dehydration. What to do at work during hot weather.

What to do when working during a heatwave

The most effective approach is straightforward. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and make your concerns known.

While there is no legal maximum temperature for work, if you feel that the conditions in your workplace are unsafe, you are entitled to stop.