Are temperatures rising in the workplace?….

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If employees are saying it is too hot to work, that could be a sign that the working conditions aren’t comfortable or safe, especially if it’s affecting productivity and well-being. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Legal Position on Workplace Temperature (UK)

• No legal maximum temperature: Unlike the minimum (16°C or 13°C if work is physically demanding), the UK does not set a legal maximum temperature for workplaces. However, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and associated regulations require employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees — which includes thermal comfort.

• HSE guidance: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says employers must maintain a “reasonable” temperature in indoor workplaces. What is “reasonable” depends on the work environment and type of work.

2. Your Immediate Steps

Here is a practical action list to stay compliant and keep staff productive:

Check and monitor temperature

• Use a thermometer to monitor areas where complaints are coming from.

• If temps are above 24–27°C and rising, staff may be experiencing discomfort.

Conduct a Thermal Comfort Risk Assessment

Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, you have to assess health and safety risks — including heat.

Check factors like:

• Air temperature

• Humidity

• Air movement

•  Type of work

• Clothing/PPE required

‍ HSE Thermal Comfort Checklist

‍ ‍Take Reasonable Measures

• Improve ventilation (open windows, use fans or portable AC units).

• Allow more frequent breaks or create cooler rest areas.

• Provide cold water or hydration points.

• Relax dress codes where appropriate (within safety guidelines).

• Reschedule work to cooler times of day if possible (especially in physical or warehouse environments).

‍ 3 . Longer-Term Options

‍ ‍If high temperatures are a recurring issue:

• Review your building’s insulation, ventilation, or cooling systems.

• Consider blinds, films, or screens to reduce solar gain.

• Assess if remote work or flexitime could reduce exposure during peak heat.

 4. Communication Is Key

• Keep staff informed of what you are doing to address the heat.

• Ask for feedback or suggestions — this shows you are listening and being proactive.

• Let them know how to report symptoms of heat stress (e.g., headache, dizziness, confusion, dehydration).

• Monitor the situation and keep in regular contact during prolonged heatwaves

5. If You Do not Act…

‍ ‍Ignoring excessive heat complaints can lead to:

• Drops in productivity and morale

• Increased sick leave or health issues

• Formal grievances or HSE involvement if employees feel unsafe

You can draft a short internal message to staff acknowledging the issue and outlining what steps you are taking.

If you have any temperatures issues in the workplace which are too hot to handle, please get in touch, on 01473 276170 or email us at soshr@sos-hr.co.uk

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