With record-breaking heatwaves across Europe, in the event the rising temperatures reach closer to home in the last weeks of summer, it is important for employers to be mindful of what the law states in relation to the office temperatures. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1993, under Regulation 7, states that the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings needs to be ‘reasonable’. However, whilst there is guidance in regard to minimum temperatures, there is no statement on a maximum temperature.

The minimum temperature should be 16 degrees Celsius unless the work involved requires physical effort; in this case, the temperature should be at least 13 degrees Celsius. There is no law for maximum working temperature. If employees are exposed to extreme heat, this can cause discomfort, fatigue and dehydration as well as impacting productivity and attendance levels.

Employers have a legal duty to ensure the welfare of their employees and workers and in terms of office temperature; this is focused on the concept of ‘thermal comfort’, i.e. how acceptable an employee considers the current temperature. The easiest way to establish this is through communication with staff. At least 80% of the employees must be satisfied with the workplace temperature according to the Health and Safety Executive.

There are various practical steps that an employer can take to address concerns regarding the workplace temperature such as relaxing guidance on workwear and uniforms, opening windows, adjusting or providing air conditioning and ensuring cold drinking water is to hand for employees.

Legal Island Training Resources for Your Staff

Workplace Health & Safety | eLearning Course

Are you responsible for overseeing the implementation of training for all employees in your organisation? Health and safety legislation places certain legal duties on employers and employees to ensure a good standard of health and safety in the workplace. Legal Island’s Workplace Health & Safety eLearning course is tailored specifically to the law in your jurisdiction and provides your employees with comprehensive training on health and safety practices in the workplace.

Click here to view our course on workplace health and safety.