Expert comment: what are your workplace rights during a heatwave? Salford HR expert explains

“As temperatures continue to rise during periods of extreme heat, it is important for both employers and employees to understand their rights and responsibilities. While UK law does not currently set a specific maximum workplace temperature, this does not mean employees are without protection. Employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees, and this includes managing risks associated with excessive heat.

“The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to provide a “reasonable” working temperature. Although minimum temperature guidance exists, there is no equivalent upper limit because safe working conditions vary significantly depending on the nature of the role, for example an office worker compared with someone working outdoors, in a kitchen, or in a physically demanding environment.

“During a heatwave, employers should undertake sensible risk assessments and consider practical adjustments. These might include improving ventilation, providing access to drinking water, allowing more frequent rest breaks, adapting working hours, relaxing dress codes, enabling flexible or remote working where possible, and paying particular attention to employees who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness.

“Employees also have rights if they believe working conditions present a serious and imminent risk to their health and safety. Under employment legislation, workers are protected from detriment where they raise genuine health and safety concerns or take appropriate action in response to unsafe conditions.

“However, the best approach is not simply about legal compliance but good workplace practice. Extreme temperatures can affect concentration, productivity, fatigue levels and wellbeing. Employers who communicate clearly, listen to concerns and take proportionate steps are more likely to maintain both safety and employee engagement.

“As climate patterns change and periods of extreme weather become more common, organisations should move away from treating heatwaves as unusual events and instead build temperature management into wider health, safety and workforce planning.”