How hot is too hot (to work)?
The recent record-breaking temperatures and the first ever red heatwave warning from the Met Office has led to calls from some MPs and unions for legislation to be introduced to put a limit on workplace temperatures to 30 degrees, or 27 degrees for workers doing strenuous work. There has also been calls for employers to have a statutory duty to introduce control measures, such as ventilation or moving staff away from sources of heat.
Whilst heat can cause significant consequences for some people, including dizziness, fainting, heat stroke, tiredness, or even death, there is no limit on the maximum temperature at work. Rather, the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/3004) requires employers to ensure that temperatures in all workplaces inside buildings are reasonable. Employers also have a duty of care for their employees, regardless of where they work. |
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The Supreme Court clarifies the position on holiday pay for part year workers with variable hours
Decision
The Supreme Court has ratified the decisions of the Employment Appeals Tribunal and the Court of Appeal in dismissing the case of Harpur Trust.
This means that workers who do not work throughout the entire year are entitled to 5.6 weeks paid leave each year, rather than a pro-rated equivalent for the amount of hours they work. |