It’s hot, might be too hot: Is there a maximum working temperature in the UK?

2 June 2026

In the UK, we are used to rain, snow, sun and wind all in the space of 20 minutes, but for about two weeks a year we are stuck with sticky heat in buildings that are not equipped to handle it.

For workers in the UK, rising temperatures are wreaking havoc on their work.

An increase in heat outside of the optimal comfort zone of 22ºC to 25ºC is proven to reduce concentration, lower physical output and show signs of cognitive fatigue.

As an employer, it is your responsibility to ensure all employees have a comfortable working environment.

What is the current legislation around working temperature?

Currently, there is no legal limit on working temperatures in the UK.

While guidance suggests a minimum of 16ºC or 13ºC if employees are doing physical work, there are currently no guidelines in place to protect workers against the heat.

Since the rise in temperatures due to climate change, the British public is calling for a maximum working temperature to be set.

By law, employers have a ‘duty of care’ to make sure working temperatures are reasonable for their staff. This includes those who work in an office or work from home.

Employers must stick to health and safety at work laws, this includes:

• Keeping the temperature at a comfortable level
• Providing clean and fresh air

This can be monitored by conducting continuous risk assessments, tracking thermometers in work areas and adjusting work rates.

While this also applies to work-from-home employees, employers may face greater challenges in verifying the safety of these environments.

What can employers do to help manage temperatures in the workplace?

In some jobs, it is inevitable that you will be hot, such as those who work in kitchens. There are ways to mitigate the heat and allow employees to work safely.

This includes:

• Optimising airflow – Ensure windows are opened and use fans or air conditioning to keep air circulating
• Managing sun exposure – Block out direct sunlight by installing curtains or blinds
• Adjusting dress codes – Relax formal policies to allow staff to wear loose, breathable clothing, provided other health and safety guidance is still followed
• Increasing breaks – Allow extra, frequent rest breaks so staff can step away to cool down and grab a drink
• Providing shaded areas – Outdoor workers should have shaded rest areas to ensure they have protection from the sun

Could legislation on working temperatures be changing soon?

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has called for the Government to implement maximum temperature requirements as heatwaves intensify due to climate change.

They use the example of Spain, where the legal working temperature is 27ºC for sedentary work and 25ºC for light physical work.

Legal working temperatures in Spain were implemented in 1995 and laws have been periodically updated to better accommodate workers.

It is argued by the CCC that the UK was built for a climate that no longer exists today, and companies need to mitigate the impact of climate change on employees.

While it is unclear when the law may change, hotter weather seems to be an ongoing reality for the UK, so employers do not need to wait before taking action.

Being proactive with protecting employees can improve their wellbeing, boost your public perception and keep you in a strong position should the law change.

Accommodating for the impact of heat may also allow employers to better support those more impacted, such as those with health conditions or disabilities, without your employees needing to request allowances.

This can demonstrate an ongoing engagement with the Equality Act 2010, as employers should be striving to create more inclusive workplaces.

Our employment law team supports businesses in developing effective policies and risk management strategies.

We can review your current approach, helping you to mitigate the effects of these ever-rising temperatures and keep employees safe.

Beat the heat. Contact us today for support to help your employees stay cool.