In warm summer weather, the temperature at the workplace even rises to 30-35 degrees. I can’t do 8-9 hour work days in this heat. However, the employer says that he cannot change the weather. What could I do?
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the employer must design and furnish the workplace in such a way that it is possible to prevent occupational accidents and health damage and to preserve the employee’s ability to work and well-being. Although the law does not set a specific requirement for the temperature of the work space, the work environment must be suitable for the performance of work tasks. This means the right air temperature, humidity and sufficient availability of fresh air.
The recommended temperature ranges based on the nature of the work are:
- Sedentary work that does not require physical effort: 20-25 °C
- Standing or sitting work that requires some physical effort: 19-24 °C
- Standing or sitting work requiring some physical effort and moving small objects: 17-23 °C
- Standing work requiring moderate physical exertion and light weight bearing: 16-22 °C
- Work with constant movement requiring high physical effort and heavy lifting: 15-20 °C
If the employer is unable to immediately ensure a suitable temperature, other measures must be taken to avoid the hazards of a hot work environment. For example, to allow employees sufficient rest breaks in rooms with suitable temperature and during the working day the use of showers, the possibility of drinking mineral water, etc.
In case of problems, proceed as follows:
- Talk to your line manager: When a problem arises, contact your line manager first and try to find a solution together.
- Consult a working environment commissioner or specialist: if the problem persists, talk to a working environment commissioner.
- Addressing the employer in writing: If verbal appeal does not help, submit a written complaint, describing the problem in detail.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (§ 14 subsection 5 point 4) gives an employee the right to refuse work that endangers his or her health or that of others. If the temperature is so high that it threatens health, it is the right to refuse work and go to a cool room to recover. Notify the employer and the working environment commissioner immediately. Before refusing to work, inform the employer in writing about the problem and demand that it be solved. If you are forced to refuse work, also provide the reasons for the refusal in writing, so that, if necessary, it will be possible to prove later why you refused the job.
If the temperature in the work environment is so high that you feel sick, there must be an opportunity to stop work and go to a cool room to recover. Consult a doctor if necessary. It is important that the employer ensures a safe and health-friendly environment at the workplace, implementing additional measures if necessary.
2024-08-06 05:55:35
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