August 19, 2002—The Trades Union Congress (TUC), the federation of the UK’s trade unions is demanding a legal maximum for workplace temperatures. While there is a legal minimum temperature, contrary to popular belief there is no upper limit.
When the thermometer reaches 30 degrees C, or 27 degrees C for those doing strenuous work, says the TUC then employers should reduce the temperature, with fans or air conditioning.
Where exposure to heat cannot be reduced, workers should be provided with adequate breaks and offered job rotation. Hot temperatures cause injuries and illness at work the TUC claims. Too much heat can cause fatigue, extra strain on the heart and lungs, dizziness and fainting, or heat cramps due to loss of water and salt. Hot, dry air can increase the risk of eye and throat infections, and breathing problems such as asthma and rhinitis.
TUC General Secretary, John Monks, said: “It is farcical that we have a legal minimum but no legal maximum for workplace temperatures. Extreme heat can be just as dangerous as extreme cold. While there is no legal maximum working temperature, Britains workers are not protected from sweatshop conditions.”
Minimum working temperatures are 13 degrees C for strenuous work, 16 degrees C generally.
While calling for regulation, the TUC argues that many of the steps needed to reduce heat at work can be taken voluntarily. It believes that managers should agree action with union workplace safety reps where possible.
—Richard Byatt
Reprinted with permission; copyright 2002 i-FM
