Closed petition Introduce a legal maximum temperature for indoor workplaces

Closed on 18 February 2021

Many workplaces, and particularly kitchens, do not have air conditioning. Kitchens can reach temperatures of up to 55 degrees in normal weather, so when the temperature outside hits 30+ degrees the kitchen can be above 55 degrees. Working in these temperatures is not acceptable.

During the summer months of the year, a lot of us are faced with working in extremely hot uncomfortable conditions. The Health and Safety Executive has advised that indoor workplaces should not be cooler than 13/16degrees, depending on the type of work. However, there is no guidance or legislation setting a maximum limit.

All we are asking is for our workplace to be an acceptable temperature whilst we try to make a living.

Imagine on a hot day, having to work in a kitchen for 12 hours + with no air con or windows. Many employers see this as reasonable, because there isn’t a law against it, but it should not be allowed.