Working Conditions

Poor Working Conditions and Employee Wellbeing

Minimum Workplace Temperature

The Health and Safe Executive (HSE) publishes a series of Approved Codes of Practice on temperature in the workplace. These Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations suggest that the minimum temperature for working indoors should normally be at least:

• 16°C or
• 13°C if much of the work involves rigorous physical effort

Higher Workplace Temperatures

There is no maximum legal temperature for workplaces.

However, all workers are entitled to an environment where risks to their health and safety are monitored and mitigated. Heat is classed as a hazard and comes with legal obligations for employers. Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure that the temperature in the workplace is safe and comfortable for employees.

Understanding Safe Working Environment Standards

A safe working environment is one in which employees are protected from harm and risk to their health. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK provides guidance and standards for employers to ensure that their workplaces are safe and healthy for their employees. Moreover, these standards cover topics such as air quality, noise levels, temperature, lighting, and ergonomic design.

Employers can improve the working environment by following these standards and implementing best practices. For instance, providing good ventilation, reducing noise levels, and ensuring that the temperature is within the safe range can all improve the working environment and employee wellbeing.

How Workers Can Fight to Improve Working Conditions

Employees can take action to improve working conditions in their workplaces. The first step is to raise concerns with their employer or manager. This can be done through a formal procedure or informally. If the employer fails to address the concerns, employees can seek advice and support from a union.

Employees can also take part in workplace health and safety committees, which are designed to identify and address health and safety issues in the workplace. These committees can help to improve the working environment and employee wellbeing by promoting best practices and advocating for change.

How Unions Improve Working Conditions

Unions play an essential role in improving working conditions for employees. For example, they can advocate to improve working hours, and working conditions. They also provide support and advice to employees who are experiencing issues at work. Unions can also help to improve the working environment and employee wellbeing by further advocating for better health and safety standards and promoting best practices.

Final Thoughts

Poor working conditions can have a significant impact on employee wellbeing. Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe working environment for their employees, and employees can take action to improve working conditions in their workplaces. Unions can also play an essential role in advocating for better working conditions and supporting employees who are experiencing issues at work.

Improving working conditions can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved employee wellbeing. Employers who invest in the health and wellbeing of their employees are more likely to retain staff, attract new employees, and achieve better business outcomes.