Unions call for maximum UK workplace temperature as heatwave descends

theguardian.com:

Unions are calling for people to get legal protection against high temperatures in UK workplaces, as a heatwave arrives that could cause temperatures to approach 40C on Monday and Tuesday.

The GMB union said the government should set a maximum temperature for workplaces of 25C, meaning employers should offer flexible working and travel arrangements, give staff extra breaks and relax dress codes to allow staff to wear cooler clothes.

Lynsey Mann, the union’s health and safety officer, said: “This hot weather is great for being on a sun lounger, but if you’re trying to work through it’s no joke.

“Bosses need to do everything possible to keep workplaces cool and, more importantly, safe. This can be as simple as letting people wear more casual clothing and providing proper hydration.

“High levels of UV exposure also mean that outdoor workers have a much higher risk of developing skin cancer. Simply allowing more breaks and providing sun cream and protective clothing, such as hats with neck covers, can help reduce this risk.

“Ultimately, there needs to be a legal maximum working temperature in the same way we have a legal minimum working temperature, and it is in employers’ interests – workers who are overheating aren’t going to be at their best.”

Meteorologists have given an 80% chance of the heatwave breaking the UK’s record for highest temperatureof 38.7C, which was reached in 2018.

There is a 50% chance of 40C being broken in an area of the UK that has been given a red weather warning for heat.

While there are rules regarding minimum temperature levels in UK workplaces, there are no laws that set a maximum level.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has previously said that employers have a responsibility to ensure that working