Weather warnings have been issued across Scotland this week as temperatures plummet as low as -16C in some areas.
The Met Office has announced yellow warnings for snow and ice across the UK. But getting to work can be complicated amid snow, ice and road closures. So, just how cold does it have to be before you can work from the warmth of your house, or get sent home?
Jayne Harrison, head of employment law at Richard Nelson LLP, explains workers’ rights and encourages working people to discuss arrangements with their employers for the cold snap.
She said: “Employers have a duty of care to look after the health, safety, and welfare of all of their employees. This means they have a responsibility to ensure the temperature in the workplace is adequate.
“During cold snaps, this is something they should monitor closely. That said, there is no law which states there is a specific temperature when Brits wouldn’t be expected to turn up for work.
“For those who suffer from conditions which can be exacerbated in the cold weather such as Raynaud’s disease or arthritis, we’d encourage you to discuss working arrangements with your employer. For example, if you have a job where you can work remotely, it could be agreed for you to work from the warmth and comfort of your home when the weather conditions deteriorate.
“Similarly, if you live in a remote area where roads become particularly treacherous in adverse weather conditions, it’ll be worth discussing arrangements for when travelling into the office may be particularly difficult.”
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 Approved Code of Practice obligates employers to ensure there is a reasonable temperature in the workplace. While Harrison reveals that there is no exact law that states when office temperatures are too cold to work, these regulations state that indoor workplaces must have a minimum temperature of 16C, or 13C if the work is physically strenuous.
It is also required that employers consider relaxing workers’ dress codes to allow them to wear warmer and more ice-appropriate outfits in the office.
For outdoor workers, of course, employers have no control over how cold it is.
However, Harrison explains that businesses have a responsibility to take action in protecting workers who work long hours in the cold.
These provisions can be as simple as having warm break areas and providing hot drinks, to supplying adequate clothing and personal protective equipment.
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