Make maximum workplace temperatures legally enforceable in hospitality kitchens

Background

Introduce a legal maximum working temperature for hospitality kitchens. Restaurant, pub and takeaway staff can be required to work in temperatures above 40°C, risking heat exhaustion, dehydration and accidents. Employers should be required to take action when temperatures become unsafe.

Additional details

Hospitality workers in restaurants, pubs, cafes and takeaways regularly work in temperatures exceeding 40°C due to ovens, grills and fryers, especially during hot weather. Excessive heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, headaches, reduced concentration and an increased risk of accidents. Current regulations do not set a maximum workplace temperature. We believe workers need clear legal protection from unsafe heat.