Extremes of temperature can put workers at risk. For example workers could suffer heat exhaustion in high temperatures and hypothermia in a cold environment. It is important therefore for employers to control the temperature of the workplace, and, if this is not possible, offer workers other protection against the temperature.
Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (Workplace Regulations), the temperature in internal workplaces must be reasonable during working hours. The Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) accompanying the Workplace Regulations advises that the minimum acceptable temperature is 16°C, or 13°C where heavy physical work is carried out.
Although the ACOP accompanying the Workplace Regulations states a minimum temperature for workplaces, it does not recommend a maximum temperature.
The Regulations also require that a sufficient number of thermometers are located throughout the workplace, so that the temperature can be monitored.