There is no legal maximum or minimum workplace temperature in the UK. However, the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to maintain a "reasonable" temperature during working hours.
Approved Code of Practice
The HSE's Approved Code of Practice suggests:
- Minimum 16°C for office/sedentary work
- Minimum 13°C for work involving severe physical effort
These are guidelines, not legal limits, but employers who fall significantly below them may face enforcement action.
Hot Weather
While there's no maximum temperature, employers must still provide a reasonable working environment. In hot weather, consider:
- Providing fans, air conditioning, or portable cooling units
- Allowing flexible working hours to avoid the hottest part of the day
- Relaxing dress codes
- Providing free cold drinking water
- Allowing additional rest breaks
- Moving workstations away from direct sunlight
Cold Weather
For cold environments or outdoor work, provide:
- Adequate heating in indoor workplaces
- Suitable protective clothing for outdoor workers
- Warm rest areas and hot drinks
- Reduced exposure times with regular warm-up breaks
Risk Assessment
Temperature should form part of your overall workplace risk assessment. Consider thermal comfort factors: air temperature, radiant heat, humidity, air velocity, clothing, and work rate.
Need advice on workplace temperature compliance? Talk to our health and safety team.