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Scottish Sun
19-06-2025
- Climate
- Scottish Sun
Can I refuse to work outdoors in hot weather? Rules and rights explained
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WITH temperatures rising across the UK, many outdoor workers are questioning their rights when the sun beats down. So, can you legally refuse to work in the heat? The answer isn't as clear-cut as you might hope, but the rules are there to protect you. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Employers must ensure safe working environments in all weather Credit: Getty This issue applies across the UK, where the law does not set a maximum working temperature. That includes outdoor environments, where hot conditions can make even routine tasks feel unbearable — and at times, unsafe. While you can't simply walk off the job when the sun is out, employers are expected to take reasonable steps to protect your health. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 makes it the employer's legal duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees while they're at work. It doesn't lay down an exact temperature limit for when it becomes too hot to work outdoors, but that doesn't mean there are no protections. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 also require employers to provide a working environment that is 'reasonable' and safe. This idea of 'reasonable' is open to interpretation. But guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) offers some benchmarks. For example, they suggest that indoor workplaces should be at least 16°C, or 13°C if the job involves heavy physical work. Unfortunately, there's no legal upper limit — even when it comes to working outside under direct sun. Cheap hacks to stay cool this summer John Kushnick, legal operations director at National Accident Helpline, explained: 'Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold.' However, just because there's no specific temperature cut-off doesn't mean you're without support. Employers are still expected to carry out risk assessments when working conditions could pose a hazard. This becomes especially important during a heatwave. If a significant number of staff complain about the temperature, employers must take action. The HSE advises that employers should look out for symptoms of heat stress in their staff, which can include fatigue, fainting, heat rash, and in more serious cases, heat stroke. Working in the heat can also affect your ability to concentrate and complete physical tasks safely. During hot spells, employers are encouraged to make adjustments. That might mean changing working hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day, making sure staff have access to water and shaded areas, or even relaxing dress codes to help workers stay cool. In cases where someone is particularly vulnerable, such as pregnant employees or those with health conditions, alternative arrangements — like working indoors — should be considered. If an employer fails to act and the working environment becomes dangerously hot, workers may have some legal backing to refuse unsafe work. Under Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, employees can withdraw from a work situation if they believe there is serious and imminent danger. But this should not be done lightly. It's important to report your concerns first and allow your employer the chance to make changes. In colder conditions, the same principles apply. The risks might be different — frostbite, hypothermia, or slips on icy surfaces — but the responsibility remains the same. Employers must ensure safe working environments in all weather. That could mean providing warm clothing, hot drinks, or delaying work when conditions are extreme. Thermal comfort is not just about the temperature on a thermometer. It includes factors like humidity, wind, clothing, and how physically demanding the work is. That's why employers should carry out regular risk assessments and adjust conditions where necessary to avoid putting staff at risk.
The Sun
19-06-2025
- Climate
- The Sun
Can I refuse to work outdoors in hot weather? Rules and rights explained
WITH temperatures rising across the UK, many outdoor workers are questioning their rights when the sun beats down. So, can you legally refuse to work in the heat? The answer isn't as clear-cut as you might hope, but the rules are there to protect you. 2 This issue applies across the UK, where the law does not set a maximum working temperature. That includes outdoor environments, where hot conditions can make even routine tasks feel unbearable — and at times, unsafe. While you can't simply walk off the job when the sun is out, employers are expected to take reasonable steps to protect your health. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 makes it the employer's legal duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees while they're at work. It doesn't lay down an exact temperature limit for when it becomes too hot to work outdoors, but that doesn't mean there are no protections. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 also require employers to provide a working environment that is 'reasonable' and safe. This idea of 'reasonable' is open to interpretation. But guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) offers some benchmarks. For example, they suggest that indoor workplaces should be at least 16°C, or 13°C if the job involves heavy physical work. Unfortunately, there's no legal upper limit — even when it comes to working outside under direct sun. Cheap hacks to stay cool this summer John Kushnick, legal operations director at National Accident Helpline, explained: 'Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold.' However, just because there's no specific temperature cut-off doesn't mean you're without support. Employers are still expected to carry out risk assessments when working conditions could pose a hazard. This becomes especially important during a heatwave. If a significant number of staff complain about the temperature, employers must take action. The HSE advises that employers should look out for symptoms of heat stress in their staff, which can include fatigue, fainting, heat rash, and in more serious cases, heat stroke. Working in the heat can also affect your ability to concentrate and complete physical tasks safely. During hot spells, employers are encouraged to make adjustments. That might mean changing working hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day, making sure staff have access to water and shaded areas, or even relaxing dress codes to help workers stay cool. In cases where someone is particularly vulnerable, such as pregnant employees or those with health conditions, alternative arrangements — like working indoors — should be considered. If an employer fails to act and the working environment becomes dangerously hot, workers may have some legal backing to refuse unsafe work. Under Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, employees can withdraw from a work situation if they believe there is serious and imminent danger. But this should not be done lightly. It's important to report your concerns first and allow your employer the chance to make changes. In colder conditions, the same principles apply. The risks might be different — frostbite, hypothermia, or slips on icy surfaces — but the responsibility remains the same. Employers must ensure safe working environments in all weather. That could mean providing warm clothing, hot drinks, or delaying work when conditions are extreme. Thermal comfort is not just about the temperature on a thermometer. It includes factors like humidity, wind, clothing, and how physically demanding the work is. That's why employers should carry out regular risk assessments and adjust conditions where necessary to avoid putting staff at risk. 2
Scottish Sun
18-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Office rights explained: What temperature is too hot to work in?
FEELING HOT HOT HOT Office rights explained: What temperature is too hot to work in? THE UK is basking in glorious sunshine with temperatures set to peak at over 30 degrees Celsius in parts. The Met Office has said a heatwave is "likely" this weekend with sunshine continuing into next week. Advertisement 1 We explain your rights when it comes to working during warmer weather But what are your rights when it comes to working during hot weather? We explain everything you need to know below. What rights do I have if it's too hot in the office? There's no minimum or maximum temperature for offices or other places of work currently defined in law. Employers have to make sure conditions are "reasonable" - but that definition is obviously open to interpretation. Advertisement John Kushnick, legal operations director at National Accident Helpline said: "Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "They suggest that the minimum temperature in a workplace should be at least 16°C, or if the work involves rigorous physical exertion, it can be 13°C. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold." The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has previously suggested bosses should ensure their workers have access to water and monitor their wellbeing in hot weather. Advertisement Typical symptoms of heat stress are: An inability to concentrate Muscle cramps Heat rash Severe thirst - a late symptom of heat stress Fainting Heat exhaustion - fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin Heat stroke - hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness. This is the most severe disorder and can result in death if not detected at an early stage However, if enough members of staff complain about working conditions, bosses should carry out a risk assessment. The HSE says: 'If a significant number of employees are complaining about thermal discomfort, your employer should carry out a risk assessment, and act on the results of that assessment.' John adds: "If an employee feels uncomfortable, then they should speak to their employer as they are obliged to act reasonably and provide a safe working environment." Advertisement If you're a vulnerable staff member - including being menopausal or pregnant - you should take this into account when deciding on a plan of action. You may not get to work from home, though. Instead, the business might provide fans, relax dress codes, turn up the air conditioning, or consider other measures to make things more comfortable. What are the temperature recommendations? The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers recommends the following temperatures for different working areas: Advertisement Heavy work in factories: 13°C Light work in factories: 16°C Hospital wards and shops: 18°C Offices and dining rooms: 20°C What are my rights if I need to take public transport? Each transport company sets its own policies - and like with offices, there's no law about temperatures during a heatwave. This can mean that travellers face extremely high temperatures when out and about. For example, in 2018, Londoners complained of 42C temperatures on the Tube. Transport for London however has since said all Tubes will be air-conditioned by 2030. Advertisement If you are travelling on public transport, make sure you bring a bottle of water with you, and if possible, wear cool, loose, and light clothing. People are sharing their best "air con" hacks to keep cool in the heatwave and all you need is a bottle of water. If you're sat at work wincing in pain at sunburn caught over the weekend, here's five ways to soothe it. Keeping safe in the sun Wear clothes and sunglasses that provide sun protection The NHS website recommends wearing a hat that that shades the face, neck and ears and breathable fabrics that do not let the sunlight through. Drink water Staying hydrated in the warmer weather is also important. Be sure to carry a water bottle with you if you are travelling and taking sips throughout the day. Use suncream According to the NHS webiste, adults should aim to apply around 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen if you're covering your entire body. If sunscreen is applied too thinly, the amount of protection it gives is not as effective If you're worried you might not be applying enough SPF30, you could use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.
The Sun
18-06-2025
- Climate
- The Sun
Office rights explained: What temperature is too hot to work in?
THE UK is basking in glorious sunshine with temperatures set to peak at over 30 degrees Celsius in parts. The Met Office has said a heatwave is "likely" this weekend with sunshine continuing into next week. But what are your rights when it comes to working during hot weather? We explain everything you need to know below. What rights do I have if it's too hot in the office? There's no minimum or maximum temperature for offices or other places of work currently defined in law. Employers have to make sure conditions are "reasonable" - but that definition is obviously open to interpretation. John Kushnick, legal operations director at National Accident Helpline said: "Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "They suggest that the minimum temperature in a workplace should be at least 16°C, or if the work involves rigorous physical exertion, it can be 13°C. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold." The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has previously suggested bosses should ensure their workers have access to water and monitor their wellbeing in hot weather. Typical symptoms of heat stress are: An inability to concentrate Muscle cramps Heat rash Severe thirst - a late symptom of heat stress Fainting Heat exhaustion - fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin Heat stroke - hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness. This is the most severe disorder and can result in death if not detected at an early stage However, if enough members of staff complain about working conditions, bosses should carry out a risk assessment. The HSE says: 'If a significant number of employees are complaining about thermal discomfort, your employer should carry out a risk assessment, and act on the results of that assessment.' John adds: "If an employee feels uncomfortable, then they should speak to their employer as they are obliged to act reasonably and provide a safe working environment." If you're a vulnerable staff member - including being menopausal or pregnant - you should take this into account when deciding on a plan of action. You may not get to work from home, though. Instead, the business might provide fans, relax dress codes, turn up the air conditioning, or consider other measures to make things more comfortable. What are the temperature recommendations? The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers recommends the following temperatures for different working areas: Heavy work in factories: 13°C Light work in factories: 16°C Hospital wards and shops: 18°C Offices and dining rooms: 20°C What are my rights if I need to take public transport? Each transport company sets its own policies - and like with offices, there's no law about temperatures during a heatwave. This can mean that travellers face extremely high temperatures when out and about. For example, in 2018, Londoners complained of 42C temperatures on the Tube. Transport for London however has since said all Tubes will be air-conditioned by 2030. If you are travelling on public transport, make sure you bring a bottle of water with you, and if possible, wear cool, loose, and light clothing. People are sharing their best "air con" hacks to keep cool in the heatwave and all you need is a bottle of water. If you're sat at work wincing in pain at sunburn caught over the weekend, here's five ways to soothe it. Keeping safe in the sun Wear clothes and sunglasses that provide sun protection The NHS website recommends wearing a hat that that shades the face, neck and ears and breathable fabrics that do not let the sunlight through. Drink water Staying hydrated in the warmer weather is also important. Be sure to carry a water bottle with you if you are travelling and taking sips throughout the day. Use suncream According to the NHS webiste, adults should aim to apply around 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen if you're covering your entire body. If sunscreen is applied too thinly, the amount of protection it gives is not as effective If you're worried you might not be applying enough SPF30, you could use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.
Scottish Sun
13-06-2025
- Climate
- Scottish Sun
When is it too hot to work? Office rights explained for workers
Here's what workers are entitled to as temperatures soar HOT DESK When is it too hot to work? Office rights explained for workers Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TEMPERATURES continue to rise, and many will be feeling hot under their work collars. The MET Office has forecast that temperatures could hit up to 28C across some parts of the UK. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Woman cools down using a fan and water bottle in a hot office Yet while these balmy conditions may feel like we're on holiday, for those who have to face days in the office and can't be with a fan at home, these are your rights when it gets too hot to work. When is it too hot to work? Unfortunately, it's not simple. Firstly, there's no minimum or maximum temperature for offices or other places of work defined by law. But, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has said: "An employer must provide a working environment which is, as far as is reasonably practical, safe and without risks to health." The issue is that this definition of what is "reasonable" and "safe" is debatable. National Accident Helpline legal operations director John Kushnick said: "Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a 'reasonable' temperature in the workplace. "They suggest that the minimum temperature in a workplace should be at least 16°C, or if the work involves rigorous physical exertion, it can be 13°C. "Unfortunately, there are no laws which specifically state that workers can stop working if the temperature gets too hot or cold." But if a workplace does feel too hot, there are some typical signs to look out for if it feels like someone is suffering from heat stress: An inability to concentrate Muscle cramps Heat rash Severe thirst - a late symptom of heat stress Fainting Heat exhaustion - fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin Heat stroke - hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness. This is the most severe disorder and can result in death if not detected at an early stage Bosses should undertake a risk assessment if enough staff complain about working conditions. The independent health and safety regulator also said: 'If a significant number of employees are complaining about thermal discomfort, your employer should carry out a risk assessment, and act on the results of that assessment.' The HSE has previously suggested bosses should ensure their workers have access to water and monitor their wellbeing in hot weather. What's more, if a staff member is deemed vulnerable, such as those going through menopause or who are pregnant, this should be taken into account. In this instance, vulnerable employees may need to work from home. But this is not possible for everyone, and so businesses may need to adapt. Fans, relaxed dress codes, or turning up the air conditioning are all measures that can make the office environment more comfortable. What are the temperature recommendations? The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers has helpfully recommended the following temperatures for different areas of work. Heavy work in factories: 13°C Light work in factories: 16°C Hospital wards and shops: 18°C Offices and dining rooms: 20°C If you have to take public transport, what are your rights? Much like in the office, these are up for debate as each transport company can set its own policies, and so during a heatwave, there are no laws about temperatures. Therefore, over the coming weeks, travellers are in for some pretty hot journeys. And while Transport for London has said all Tubes will be air-conditioned by 2030, let's not forget the extremely high temperatures Londoners face on the Tube, with commuters claiming they experienced conditions of 42C in 2018! So until the time that commuting is not like walking into an oven, it is recommended that travellers take water bottles and, if possible, wear loose-fitting clothing which is cool and light. Commuters who travel by car are also sharing tips to save money and stay cool when travelling. There are also easy ways to fight the heat at home with some "air con" hacks.
