As the UK faces freezing temperatures as low as -6°C, employment law expert Jayne Harrison from Richard Nelson LLP has clarified the legal position on workplace temperatures and employee rights during cold weather.
This comes as the Met Office issues yellow weather warnings for snow and ice, raising concerns about health and safety in the workplace.
Harrison explains that while there is no specific law mandating a minimum temperature at which employees can be sent home, employers are legally obligated to ensure a safe and adequate working environment. She stated, “Employers have a duty of care to look after the health, safety, and welfare of all their employees. This includes maintaining an adequate workplace temperature during cold weather.”
Legal Guidelines for Indoor and Outdoor Workers
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to provide a reasonable indoor temperature. While no fixed legal minimum exists, the regulations suggest a minimum of 16°C for most indoor work environments or 13°C for roles involving significant physical effort.
Employers are also encouraged to monitor workplace conditions during cold snaps and may implement measures such as allowing relaxed dress codes to enable employees to wear warmer clothing.
For outdoor workers, where temperature control is not feasible, employers must provide additional support. This includes supplying appropriate clothing, personal protective equipment, and access to warm rest areas with hot drinks.
Remote Working and Special Arrangements
For individuals whose health conditions are aggravated by cold weather – such as those with Raynaud’s disease or arthritis – Harrison advises proactive discussions with employers. She explained, “For those who can work remotely, agreements could be made to work from home during particularly cold or adverse weather conditions.”
Similarly, employees living in areas where travel becomes hazardous due to snow or ice are advised to discuss alternative working arrangements. Flexibility in these circumstances can help ensure employee safety without compromising productivity.
In addition to monitoring workplace temperatures, employers must consider how to accommodate the challenges posed by extreme weather. Adequate heating, a flexible dress code, and allowances for remote work can help mitigate the impact of freezing conditions.
Clear discussions about working arrangements can ensure health and safety standards are maintained, supporting both employee wellbeing and organisational efficiency during winter’s harshest weather.