When is it too hot to work? What temperature is the legal limit in the UK, your rights in the August heat wave
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With parts of the UK set to swelter at 34°C, know your rights at work 🌡️
- UK’s fourth summer heat wave has brought amber health alerts to much of the UK
- But there’s no legal maximum workplace temperature in UK law
- Employers must keep conditions “reasonable” and protect staff from heat
- Workers can stop work if in “serious and imminent danger” from high temperatures
- Staff may be sent home if heat affects health or productivity, usually with pay
The fourth heat wave of the summer will continue on Wednesday (August 13), with temperatures set to reach 34°C in some areas of the UK.
An amber heat-health alert remains in effect in England until 6pm for the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, London, and the East of England, following Tuesday’s peak of 33.4°C.
Much of the rest of England is covered by yellow alerts, Tuesday saw the highest temperatures recorded in Benson (Oxfordshire), Ross-on-Wye (Herefordshire), and Northolt (west London).
The hottest August day on record was 38.5°C in Faversham, Kent, on August 10, 2003. So far in 2025, the highest temperature was 35.8°C, also in Faversham, on July 1.
Forecasters predict more sunshine and high temperatures on Wednesday, slightly cooler but still warm conditions on Thursday, and a return to very hot weather across the south and South East by Friday.
But while most of the focus is on staying safe outdoors, the heat can also make workplaces stifling – raising questions about whether staff can refuse to work or be sent home.
Is it ever ‘too hot to work’?
In short: no. UK law does not set an upper temperature limit for workplaces. Instead, the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to maintain a “reasonable” temperature indoors.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says what is “reasonable” will depend on the work being done and the environmental conditions. In hot weather, this means employers should take steps to protect workers from the effects of heat.
If temperatures become uncomfortable, employers are expected to:
- Monitor indoor conditions and respond to rising temperatures.
- Provide cooling equipment such as fans or air conditioning.
- Allow extra breaks so workers can hydrate and cool down.
- Adjust dress codes so staff can wear lighter, cooler clothing.
- Reschedule tasks so the most strenuous work is done at cooler times of the day.
Employers should also assess the needs of vulnerable employees, such as those with health conditions made worse by heat.
Can you refuse to work?
You can’t walk out simply because the office is uncomfortably warm. But under UK law, employees have the right to stop working and leave if they believe they are in “serious and imminent danger” and their employer has not taken steps to address it.
This would usually apply if you are showing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, your working conditions put your health at significant risk, or you’ve raised concerns and no action has been taken.
If this happens, you should inform your manager immediately, document the issue, and follow your company’s reporting procedures.
Legal maximum temperature?
None – UK law only says workplaces must be at a “reasonable” temperature.
Employer responsibilities:
- Keep indoor temperature reasonable.
- Provide cooling (fans, air con).
- Allow extra breaks for water/rest.
- Relax dress codes.
- Reschedule strenuous work to cooler hours.
Your rights:
You can stop work if you believe you are in “serious and imminent danger” from heat and your employer isn’t acting.
You should be paid if sent home, unless your contract says otherwise.
If you feel unwell:
- Tell your manager immediately.
- Move to a cool place, drink water, and rest.
- Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, headache, excessive sweating.
Can I be sent home from work?
Yes – if high temperatures are affecting health or productivity, your employer can send staff home.
In most cases, you should be paid for the remainder of your shift unless your contract states otherwise.
Practical steps for workers
- Stay hydrated and keep water within reach.
- Take breaks in shaded or cooler areas.
- Wear breathable fabrics and avoid heavy layers.
- Flag any symptoms of overheating (dizziness, headache, nausea) to your manager immediately.
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