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Can you stop work in heatwave weather? Your rights as temperatures could hit 40C

An extreme amber heat warning has been issued by the Met Office from Monday until Thursday - but can you stop working during this heatwave?

[An individual seated at a desk, holding a handheld fan, appears to be experiencing discomfort due to the heat. The desk is adorned with a laptop, assorted office supplies, and a window in the background that overlooks a lush garden.]

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The legal guidelines for working during a heatwave explained(Image: Getty)

The UK is set for record-breaking temperatures which could soar to 40C - but is there an official temperature for when it is "too hot" to work?

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued the red health warning for six regions of England the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London, and east of England from 1am on Wednesday until 11pm on Thursday.

A separate amber health alert has also been put in place for the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber for the same period.

Many employees wrongly believe there is a legal maximum temperature for offices and workplaces in the UK. But while there is no maximum legal working temperature in the UK, bosses still have an obligation to keep staff safe.

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Employment lawyer Natalie Peacock, from Rogers and Norton, said extreme heat is becoming a growing workplace problem across the UK.

She said: Although employers are not obliged to install air conditioning, the law requires employers to take reasonable steps to ensure the workplace is safe.

As an employment lawyer, I see the fallout from employers who fail to understand their duties when extreme heat creates safety concerns in the workplace.

Heat is a foreseeable risk which employers are expected to manage. Failing to manage the risk can amount to a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act.

She said workers should expect employers to take practical steps during heatwaves, including allowing extra breaks and making sure staff can stay cool and hydrated.

She said: Employers must consider carrying out risk assessments regarding hot weather and its impact on their workforce.

They should consider ensuring breaks are taken and providing facilities for their workforce to stay hydrated.

They should also consider workplace ventilation and providing shelter/shade for outdoor workers. Some employers I have dealt with also consider providing their workforce with free suncream and fans.

Natalie added that workers struggling in the heat may also be able to ask for flexible hours or permission to work from home during the hottest parts of the day.

She said: To reduce the impact of extreme heat on their workforce, employers may consider making simple, temporary adjustments, such as flexible hours for working during cooler parts of the day or agreeing to requests for working from home.

Duties to protect employees continue even when working from home. Employers should carry out homeworking risk assessments and may consider providing fans for their employees homes.

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