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The Debate: Should there be a legal maximum temperature for offices?

4 21
03.07.2025

As London summers heat up, is it time the UK mandates a maximum working temperature for the office? Two writers go head to head in this week’s Debate

Yes: Heat is a workplace hazard. Workplaces must evolve as we face changing climates

Legislation on maximum workplace temperatures are non-existent, yet we will only start to experience more intense heat waves as global temperatures continue to increase. Employees are ensured a ‘reasonable’ temperature, but there is no legal upper limit, leaving thousands of employees working in uncomfortable, and potentially unsafe working conditions. High temperatures can lead to poor focus and dehydration, as well as exacerbate health conditions like asthma, heart disease and menopause. And for neurodivergent people or those with sensory sensitivities, extreme heat can be especially overwhelming. During intense heat, productivity plummets and morale takes a hit – so why would employers want their employees to work from the office?

Working from home and remote work should be part of company wellbeing policy, and is a simple, cost-effective solution when it comes to managing extreme weather conditions. Commuting in this heat........

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