Government Urged To Introduce Maximum Temperature For Working Indoors As Heatwave Approaches

"However, guidance suggests a minimum of 16°C or 13°C if employees are doing physical work," it continues.

There's 'no guidance for a maximum temperature limit', with it simply being noted the temperature should be kept 'at a comfortable level' and employees provided with 'clean and fresh air'.

For employees working indoors, it simply states the temperature 'during work hours' must be 'reasonable'.

If employees aren't happy with the heat, they are told to take the issue up with their employer.

The petition - addressed to Thérèse Coffey, the Secretary of State at the Department for Work and Pensions - reads: "Every summer, temperatures are rising, and working in prolonged heat and sun can be dangerous. It can cause a number of health concerns, from dehydration and dizziness to the most serious of illnesses. The Health and Safety Executive says 4,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year as a result of outdoor working.

"Trade unions want to see the law changed, so that employers and workers know when action must be taken to keep workers cooler and safer."

"We would like ministers to introduce a new absolute maximum indoor temperature, set at 30°C (or 27°C for those doing strenuous jobs), to indicate when work should stop," it details.

When temperatures reach 'above 24°C' and workers are left feeling 'uncomfortable', the petition states there should be 'guidance which asks employers to begin taking steps to reduce temperatures'.

"This is the World Heath Organisation's recommended maximum temperature for working in comfort," it continues.

The petition concludes: "It's time to protect working people feeling the heat!"

A HSE spokesperson told LADbible: "There is no maximum workplace temperature because every workplace is different. Responsibility to make workplaces safe and healthy lies with employers. Workplace temperature is a hazard that comes with legal obligations for employers like other hazards."