On 19 June 2026, following the UK Health Security Agency and Met Office issuing heat-health alerts, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) called on employers to protect workers during periods of extreme hot weather.
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to ensure that temperatures in all workplaces inside buildings are reasonable.
While an Approved Code of Practice sets a limit on minimum workplace temperatures of 16 degrees (or 13 degrees if the work involves severe physical effort), there is no limit on the maximum temperature. Despite the absence of a legal limit, the HSE is calling on employers to take action to protect those working inside and outside in extreme heat. Heat is classed as a hazard and employers must, when assessing health and safety risks to their workers, include risks from extreme weather, such as heatwaves, in line with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
The HSE promotes a number of simple and affordable measures that employers can take. These include altering working patterns so workers can work at cooler times of the day, relaxing dress codes, providing free access to drinking water and sharing information about the symptoms of heat stress and what to do if someone is affected. The HSE also advises placing workstations away from direct sunlight and heat sources, insulating hot pipes and machinery, and providing weather-appropriate personal protective equipment. Employers can also refer to the HSE’s guidance on temperature in the workplace for practical steps to support workers.
The HSE also advises that employers should engage with staff and consider their feedback where temperatures become uncomfortable.
ACAS has also reminded employers that they have a duty of care to ensure staff are working in a reasonable temperature and that, while there is no legal maximum working temperature, employers should carry out risk assessments and take steps to keep staff comfortable. This may include allowing additional breaks, ensuring access to drinking water and considering temporary adjustments to working arrangements.
Risks to workers from extreme heat must be managed – HSE Media Centre
Department for Education (DfE) guidance on managing hot weather
The Department for Education has also published updated guidance in June 2026, drawing on UK Health Security Agency advice for schools and early years settings during periods of hot weather.
The guidance confirms that schools are not normally expected to close during hot weather and that leaders should instead take sensible steps to ensure staff and pupils are safe and comfortable.
It also highlights that Heat-Health Alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency and Met Office should be used to inform local decision-making, with increasing expectations on schools to review and implement control measures as alert levels rise.
While the guidance is primarily pupil-focused, it reinforces the importance of practical measures that will also support staff working conditions, including ensuring adequate ventilation, reducing heat gain within buildings, limiting unnecessary heat sources, encouraging hydration and adapting working practices during periods of extreme heat.
Hot weather and heatwaves: guidance for schools and other education settings – The Education Hub
