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How hot does it legally have to be before employees should be sent home?

The º£½ÇÊÓÆµ is bracing itself for a record-breaking heatwave

The heatwave that is gripping Europe could lead to rising temperatures of 38 degrees Celsius(Image: Steve Reigate)

As the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ braces itself for record-breaking temperatures tomorrow (Thursday, July 25) many companies across the country could be facing questions from employees.

The heatwave that is gripping Europe could lead to rising temperatures of up to 38 degrees Celsius - and it is likely staff may ask about their rights to leave work.

The law does not state a minimum or maximum temperature a workplace has to be, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), but businesses are obliged to make sure working environments are at a “reasonable” temperature.

The HSE says a meaningful maximum figure can’t be given due to the high temperatures found in places such as glass works or foundries.

In these environments staff can still work safely provided appropriate controls are present.

The TUC says companies should consider letting staff dress down when its hot(Image: Getty Images)

 

But generally, employers should think about radiant temperature, humidity and air velocity, according to the HSE.

If a significant number of employees are complaining about the temperature in the office,  the HSE advises companies to carry out a risk assessment.

Meanwhile, the TUC says companies should consider letting staff work flexibly when it’s hot and dress down if they want.