24/06/2026
Heat Stress and Work
As an employer, you must include the risks of heat stress in the Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E). Guidelines for an acceptable working climate are: Light/sedentary work, such as office work: a maximum of 28°C. Physically demanding work, construction, etc.: a maximum of 26°C. If these temperatures are exceeded, action is expected from the employer.
However, there are legally binding regulations for many sectors. Consider the construction or metal industries, etc. Stricter rules apply here. Always consult the applicable collective labor agreement (CAO) for specific agreements, such as an absolute ban on continuing to work during extremely high temperatures or specific agreements regarding tropical schedules. The CAO is a binding agreement that both the employer and the employee must adhere to.
An employee therefore has rights. If he, she, or several employees together find it too hot to work, he or she may, of course, not simply stay away. This can lead to dismissal. Always consult with the employer. This is required. However, if an employer refuses to take action, an employee or employees have the right to cease work, and thus to go on strike. In doing so, follow the Working Conditions Act. According to this Act, an employee has the right to stop work immediately as soon as there is a direct or acute danger to health, for example in the case of extreme overheating.
