UK Government Considers Workplace Temperature Limits as Heatwaves Intensify
Published on 07/09/2026 at 09:42 | Redaktion boerse-global.de
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed it is reviewing workplace temperature regulations, signalling a potential shift in how UK employers manage heat-related risks. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is currently examining existing rules, with a public consultation on possible amendments to the Workplace Regulations 1992 expected later this year. The move matters to UK employers because current law sets no maximum legal working temperature, leaving businesses to interpret what constitutes a "reasonable" environment — a position that is becoming harder to defend as summer temperatures routinely exceed 35°C.
The review follows parliamentary inquiries from MPs including Dr Peter Prinsley and Alex Mayer. Sir Stephen Timms confirmed the ongoing assessment as UK temperatures are forecast to reach between 35°C and 36°C. Under existing rules, employers must maintain a reasonable working temperature and assess risks associated with extreme heat, but critics argue this lacks the clarity needed to protect workers effectively.
While the legal picture on heat remains uncertain, every UK employer still has a clear duty to maintain a compliant health and safety risk assessment. Gaps in your documentation — whether for thermal comfort, manual handling or fire safety — could leave your business exposed during HSE inspections. A free Health & Safety Toolkit gives you ready-to-use risk assessments, checklists and toolbox talks covering key regulations from the Health & Safety at Work Act to COSHH. Download the free Health & Safety Toolkit
Union Pressure for Clearer Thresholds
The absence of a legal ceiling has drawn sharp criticism from trade unions and health advocates. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has proposed a maximum temperature trigger of 24°C, with a requirement to stop work at 30°C — or 27°C for those performing strenuous tasks. In Ireland, where a heatwave brought temperatures of 30°C from July 8, Labour's Marie Sherlock has called for legally binding limits aligned with European directives.
European trade unions estimate that heat stress causes approximately 230 workplace deaths annually across the continent. Union representatives are pushing for EU-wide protection laws, suggesting a maximum Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) limit of 30°C to 32.5°C depending on labour intensity. Data from the European Trade Union Institute indicates that 130 million workers across Europe are currently exposed to heat stress, resulting in roughly 277,000 injuries every year.
International Precedents and Technological Responses
Spain has already implemented strict measures to combat rising temperatures. Since 2023, Spanish law has required employers to adjust working hours during heat alerts, often meaning earlier start times and shorter shifts for outdoor workers. In 2025, the country doubled fines for heat-related workplace violations to €1.6 million. This year, Barcelona distributed 1,400 heat-monitoring wristbands to outdoor staff — devices designed to trigger an alarm if the wearer's body temperature reaches a dangerous level.
In the United States, regional authorities are also enacting new protections. Colorado signed legislation on June 4 that will expand heat protections across various industries, effective August 12. New York City issued an executive order in late June directing city agencies to develop specific heat illness prevention guidance.
As heat protections expand internationally, UK employers need a systematic way to assess and document every workplace risk — not just thermal ones. The free Risk Assessment Toolkit provides 41 ready-to-use templates covering fire safety, manual handling, lone working and more, helping you stay compliant across all your duties. Download the free Risk Assessment Toolkit
Financial Support Under Consideration
As heatwaves become more frequent, experts in the UK are proposing new financial support mechanisms. Suggestions include a Warm Weather Payment, modelled on the existing £25 Cold Weather Payment, which would provide targeted support to vulnerable individuals managing the additional costs associated with extreme heat.
The economic impact of high temperatures was highlighted by the recent closure of independent businesses during record heat in June 2026. Some hospitality operators reported kitchen temperatures reaching 40°C, leading to temporary closures and consideration of permanent changes to opening hours during future heat events. While no official government scheme for heat-related payments has been established, the Department for Work and Pensions is reportedly considering the proposal as part of its broader response to climate-related workplace challenges.
Disclaimer regarding our articles: No investment advice, no buy or sell recommendation. Information on prices, companies, and markets is provided without guarantee; changes are possible at any time. Stock market transactions can lead to substantial losses. Our articles are created and reviewed in whole or in part automatically with the support of AI.
