When is it too hot to work in Leeds? Your rights at work and rules for working in 34C heatwave
Is it ever ‘too hot to work’? Here’s what the rules say! 🌡️
After a bit of a respite, Leeds is set to swelter in 30 degree temperatures once again.
The city is due to reach highs of 34C in the coming days with Thursday (August 13) currently expected to be the warmest. It comes as the region was moved a step closer to be declared in a drought.
Leeds and Yorkshire have been moved to “prolonged dry weather” status by the Environment Agency this week. Almost three-quarters of the country is in a “flash drought”.
Ahead of this latest heatwave, Leeds workers have been reminded of their rights when working during warm weather.
On its website, the UK Government explains: “During working hours the temperature in all indoor workplaces must be reasonable.
“There’s no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures, for example when it’s too cold or too hot to work.
“However, guidance suggests a minimum of 16ºC or 13ºC if employees are doing physical work.
“There’s no guidance for a maximum temperature limit.”
Employers must stick to health and safety at work law, including:
- keeping the temperature at a comfortable level
- providing clean and fresh air
It is advised that employees should talk to their employer if the workplace temperature is not comfortable.
The UK is on course for its hottest summer on record, with only average conditions needed for the rest of August to beat the record set just last year, the Met Office said.
Met Office chief forecaster Chris Bulmer said: “While the peak heat will be more short-lived than recent heatwaves, temperatures widely into the mid-30s Celsius on Thursday brings the potential for impacts for some, which is why a Met Office warning has been issued.
“High pressure is now becoming dominant and temperatures will build day by day. Southerly and south-easterly winds will also tap into the hot conditions over Europe which helps develop this further notable heat in what has been a hot and dry summer so far for many in the south of the UK.”