Is there a maximum and minimum working temperature?
The law says your employer must maintain a reasonable temperature in your workplace (Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, Reg. 7). It doesn't specify a maximum reasonable temperature, but the Code of Practice says 16C, or 13C for strenuous physical work, should normally be the minimum.
The effects of extreme heat and cold depend on a variety of factors. Experts say the 'comfort zone' is normally in the region of 16C to 24C.
As temperatures rise above about 25C heat exhaustion starts. People suffer loss of concentration, increased accidents and loss of productivity. Symptoms include irritability, dizziness, headaches, nausea, fainting, extra strain on the heart and heat stroke.
At low temperatures shivering starts with loss of attention and fatigue. At very low temperatures symptoms include pain in extremities (ears, nose, fingers, toes) numbness, pins and needles, damage to blood vessels and frostbite.
When it is not possible or practicable to work within the comfort zone, the employer, in consultation with Usdaw reps, should carry out risk assessments and put other control measures in place.