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The Irish Sun

Is it too hot to work? Irish worker rights in sweltering 29C heatwave & when you can legally go home as temps soar

IRELAND is basking in sizzling temperatures this week as temperatures look set to be hotter than the Canary Islands. All eyes will be on the weather forecast over the coming days as Ireland's Advertisement 2 Working in 'extreme temperature' can impact an employee's ability to do their job safely Credit: GETTY_HUB 2 The temperatures are set to soar to a whopping 29C And the Meteorologist Cathal Nolan from Ireland's While people are enjoying the heatwave, many With the current But regulations state that despite the lack of hard rule on hot temperatures - it does not mean that "any temperature is acceptable". Advertisement READ MORE ON MONEY According to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations, temperatures should be at least 17.5C or 16C if the work involves rigorous physical effort. It also states that the temperature in rooms containing workstations should be appropriate for human beings, considering the working methods used and the physical demands placed on the The regulation also says: "The fact that a maximum temperature has not been specified in the Regulations does not mean that any temperature is acceptable. "At high or uncomfortable temperatures, especially when not caused by temporary weather conditions, a means of cooling should be provided." Advertisement Most read in Irish News Also under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must ensure the safety of their staff members. Ireland to sizzle in 24C heat as heatwave arrives and Met Eireann reveal hottest areas This act states that employers must "take reasonable care to protect his or her safety, health and welfare and the safety, health and welfare of any other person who may be affected by the employee's acts or omissions at work". And health and safety regulations say employers should take efforts to keep excessive heat out of buildings that have windows. They state: "Excessive heat from the sun shining through windows, skylights or glass partitions must be avoided. Advertisement "This can be achieved by various means including internal blinds, external blinds, use of low-emissivity glass, whitewashing of windows etc." HOT TIPS TO FOLLOW DURING HEATWAVE Here are some hot tips that will help you stay cool and safe during the high temperatures in Ireland: Staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature and prevents heat-related illnesses. Taking breaks can help avoid overexertion and help the body cool down in shaded or air-conditioned areas. When outdoors, it is recommended to wear lightweight, breathable and loose-fitting clothing that allows better airflow while protecting your skin from harmful sun rays. Avoid activities during the hottest part of the day, which HSE reports to be midday. Stay alert to the signs of heat-related illnesses. 'ALLEVIATE THE WORST EFFECTS' According to the Irish They said: "Where an employer is obviously sympathetic and tries to alleviate the worst effects of hot weather most employees should bear with temporary discomfort and continue working normally. "Unless conditions are extreme, measures such as those outlined above should prevent any employees justifiably claiming that the company is in breach of its duty under the 2005 Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act. Advertisement "Any refusal by the employees to work would then place them in breach of their contracts of employment, which could lead, to loss of pay/disciplinary action." The employer should do a risk assessment if the majority of the workforce expresses complaints about hot temperatures. According to the Health and Safety Authority, if the temperature starts to rise, companies should take action to cool the workplace. Additionally, they advise businesses to loosen Advertisement However, if the employers fail to ensure the work environment is safe for the employees, they may face penalties, legal action, as it will increase the risk of workplace accidents and illnesses if not dealt with properly. VITAL TIPS FOR WORK ENVIRONMENTS Here are vital tips that will ensure employees and yourself to stay safe during the heatwave: Maintain positive management-employee relations by communicating clearly and reaching an agreement with staff over the necessary actions. Keep windows open, give fans, keep an eye on the air conditioner, and generally let fresh air flow around the office. Ensure there is a sufficient quantity of cold water on hand. If required, offer job rotation and suitable rest periods. Make sure outdoor employees understand the dangers of working in direct sunlight, wear the appropriate PPE, and use sunscreen as needed. For the comfort of employees, think about loosening the dress code in workplace settings. Make sure outdoor employees don't use the high temps as an excuse to take off their steel-toed boots and hard hats, among other necessary safety gear. SYMPTOMS OF HEAT-RELATED HEALTH ISSUES Working during extreme temperatures can impact people's When employees are exposed to hot weather for long periods, they are at risk of developing one of the many heat-related illnesses, including heat stress, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heat stress occurs when the body cannot cool itself effectively, resulting in many symptoms, including heavy sweating, fatigue and discomfort. Advertisement Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that arises from long exposure to heat and inadequate fluid intake; if left untreated, it can lead to heatstroke. The symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and headaches. Heatstroke is a severe condition that requires Symptoms may include confusion, altered mental state, and loss of consciousness. If not caught in time, it can be life-threatening. Advertisement