Too hot, too cold - guides for reps
This interactive guide is for union members and reps who want to learn about the actions they can take to guard against extreme temperatures in the workplace and contribute to the fight against climate change. This guide will:
- explain the law on working temperatures
- give an overview of who is most at risk
- suggest some of the ways to tackle this problem.
Other resources
Collective Agreement on Heatwave Working Procedures (word doc)
Temperature inspection checklist for safety reps (word doc)
Take action
We need a maximum working temperature now - Sign the petition
There’s no law on maximum working temperatures. However, during working hours the temperature in all indoor workplaces must be ‘reasonable’.
Employers have a duty to keep the temperature at a comfortable level and provide clean and fresh air.
The TUC would like to see a change in the law so that employers must attempt to reduce temperatures if they get above 24°C and workers feel uncomfortable. Employers should also be obliged to provide sun protection, cold water, and other cooling measures.
We want to see ministers introduce a new absolute maximum indoor temperature, set at 30°C (or 27°C for those doing strenuous jobs), to indicate when work should stop. Sign the petition
With climate change bringing higher temperatures to Britain, the government needs a plan on how to adapt and keep workers safe.
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