How Hot Does It Have To Be For Schools To Close

How hot does it have to be for school to close in the UK?

The Met Office has issued its first extreme heat weather warning – so what does that mean for schools? The extreme heat alert warns of an “exceptional” hot spell on Monday and Tuesday, leading to “widespread impacts on people and infrastructure.” However, there is no single rule which states that schools must close in periods of extreme weather, as it is up to individual schools to decide whether or not to shut. Since Monday, parts of the UK had been issued an amber heat warning, indicating there could be a danger to life or potential serious illness – and some schools are already adjusting their rules for the conditions. These risks will increase at the start of next week, when a rare red warning will be in place throughout much of England, The red ‘extreme’ heat warning covers most of England on Monday and Tuesday. Credit: ITV News According to the Met Office there is a “very likely” risk to life and the 40C barrier could be broken. Children sweat less than adults and cannot regulate their body temperature as well, so what measures are school taking to keep pupils safe? Red heat warning issued in UK for first time ever > What is a red weather warning for extreme heat? > Relaxed uniform rules Schools up and down the country are undertaking measures such as closing early, allowing pupils to wear PE kit or rescheduling sports days to cope with rising temperatures next week. A West Sussex County Council spokesperson said: “With temperatures predicted to continue rising into next week, we have contacted all West Sussex schools to share national guidance around managing severe weather. “We have asked all headteachers to make preparations for how best to manage the hot weather so pupils and staff can enjoy the last week of the school year safely.” Many schools are allowing pupils to wear non-uniform wear in order to keep cool during the heatwave. For instance, St John’s CE Middle School Academy in Bromsgrove has said pupils can wear loose, light-coloured clothing. Arnold Hill Spencer Academy in Nottingham said pupils who prefer to wear uniform will not need to wear a blazer or tie on Monday or Tuesday. The Knights Templar School in Hertfordshire has written to parents and guardians saying pupils may wear their PE top paired with black shorts on Monday and Tuesday. Teachers should encourage pupils to wear loose clothing and sun hats “with wide brims”, the government has advised. Will schools close early during the heatwave? Some schools and colleges are starting earlier, to allow pupils to study when it is cooler. The Hereford Academy in the West Midlands is one of those allowing secondary school pupils to start early next week and finish at 2pm, which it says will allow them to be “away for the hottest part of the day”. The academy said it would also bring its sports day forward to avoid the high temperatures next week. Clapton Girls’ Academy in east London will also be sending pupils home at 12.30pm on Monday and Tuesday. Headteacher Anna Feltham wrote to parents to say: “Already, many classrooms are very hot, even with fans, and students are struggling to keep cool, drink enough water and maintain concentration in lessons.” One school in Bromsgrove is selling ice-pops to keep pupils cool, with all profits going to charity. St John’s CE Middle School Academy has said pupils “can come to school wearing non-uniform to enable children to wear loose, light-coloured clothing that will help keep them as cool as possible”. All profits from the sale of ice pops to pupils in aid of Cancer Research, and that pupils would be encouraged not to run during playtimes to prevent heat exhaustion. Will schools cancel events? Some schools have made the decision to postpone or cancel some bigger events such as sports days. Crestwood Community School in Eastleigh, Hampshire, announced it was cancelling its sports day as it did not feel that it was safe for students to be out in the heat all day, taking part in physical activity. On the school’s Facebook page it announced: “If we can reschedule in the time we have left, then we will, but the forecast is looking hot for the rest of the term, so this may not be possible. “We apologise if this has caused disappointment, but we are thinking of the safety and comfort of our students and staff.” What is the government advising schools should do? In an update to schools on Thursday (15 July), the Government signposted heatwave guidance for teachers and other early years professionals, noting that children sweat less than adults and cannot regulate their body temperature as well, which puts them at risk of heat stress and exhaustion. During heatwaves, teachers are advised to encourage pupils to wear loose clothing and sun hats “with wide brims”. Children playing in school playground. Credit: PA Images Staff should open windows as early as possible before pupils arrive in the morning to improve ventilation and should keep the use of electric light and equipment to a minimum. Mechanical fans can be used when temperatures are below 35C but not at higher temperatures as they can make dehydration worse. The government warned that pupils with heat stress “may seem out of character and show signs of discomfort and irritability”, while signs of heat exhaustion can include tiredness, nausea and confusion. What does it take for a school to close due to the heat? According to law, there is no specific temperature that will force UK schools to close. The rules around temperatures in schools are the same as those in the workplace – where there is no set rule on what is “too hot”. However, the Government’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says there is a responsibility from an employer to ensure conditions are “reasonable” in a workplace for their staff. The guidance reads: “In offices or similar environments, the temperature in workplaces must be reasonable. There’s no law for maximum working temperature, or when it’s too hot to work.” They add that the employer must “keep the temperature at a comfortable level, sometimes known as thermal comfort” and “provide clean and fresh air”. Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To know.

What is the hottest temperature allowed in a school?

There are no legally prescribed maximum temperatures for school premises or other workplaces. The Workplace Regulations require that all reasonable steps are taken to achieve a reasonably comfortable temperature by, where necessary, special ventilation measures including provision of fans.

What is the legal temperature for schools in the UK?

Although the law does not specify minimum temperatures, the minimum temperature in classrooms should be 16°C and 13°C in areas involving rigorous physical effort (see the NASUWT Health and Safety at Work leaflet, Heating and Ventilation). Employers must also avoid excessive temperatures.

How hot is too hot to work?

Working in hot temperatures – There’s no law for maximum working temperature, or when it’s too hot to work, because every workplace is different. No meaningful upper limit can be imposed because in many indoor workplaces high temperatures are not seasonal but created by work activity, for example in bakeries or foundries. However, employers must stick to health and safety at work law, including:

keeping the temperature at a comfortable level providing clean and fresh air

What is the legal temperature to work in the UK?

During working hours the temperature in all indoor workplaces must be reasonable. There’s no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures, eg when it’s too cold or too hot to work. However, guidance suggests a minimum of 16ºC or 13ºC if employees are doing physical work. There’s no guidance for a maximum temperature limit. Employers must stick to health and safety at work law, including:

keeping the temperature at a comfortable level providing clean and fresh air

Employees should talk to their employer if the workplace temperature isn’t comfortable.

What is the lowest temperature a school can stay open?

There’s no legal minimum or maximum temperature.

What temperature is dangerously hot?

What is the heat index?

Classification	Heat Index
Caution	80°F – 90°F
Extreme Caution	90°F – 103°F
Danger	103°F – 124°F
Extreme Danger	125°F or higher

What temperature is high grade?

A fever is a common side effect of illness like the flu. It happens when there is a temporary rise in body temperature. A fever is usually a sign that your immune system is busy fighting an infection or other illness. In babies and toddlers even a slight fever may be a sign of a serious illness.

In adults a fever is not usually serious or life-threatening. However, sometimes a fever in adults can be a warning signal that something is not right. A high or persistent fever might be a sign of a serious health condition. A fever is normally a short-term rise in temperature that helps your body get rid of illness.

A fever begins when your immune system makes more white blood cells to fight an infection. The increase in white blood cells triggers your brain to heat your body up. This causes a fever. In response, your body tries to cool itself off by tightening up on blood flow to your skin and contracting muscles.

• This makes you shiver and may cause muscle aches.
• Your normal body temperature ranges from 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C).
• You may have a fever if your temperature rises above this.
• Adults typically have a fever if their body temperature increases to 100.4°F (38°C).
• This is called a low grade fever.
• A high grade fever happens when your body temperature is 103°F (39.4°C) or above.

Most fevers usually go away by themselves after 1 to 3 days. A persistent or recurrent fever may last or keep coming back for up to 14 days. A fever that lasts longer than normal may be serious even if it is only a slight fever. This is because a recurrent fever might be a sign of a more serious infection or health condition.

sweatingchills (shivering)headaches muscle painloss of appetitefatigue weakness

Call your doctor immediately if you have a high grade fever — when your temperature is 103°F (39.4°C) or higher. Get medical help if you have any kind of fever for more than three days. Let your doctor know if your symptoms get worse or if you have any new symptoms. Serious symptoms A fever may be a sign of serious illness if you have:

a severe headachedizzinesssensitivity to bright lightstiff neck or neck pain skin rash difficulty breathingfrequent vomiting dehydration stomach painmuscle crampsconfusion seizures

Other signs that a fever may be serious are:

pain when urinatingnot urinating enoughpassing dark urinepassing urine that smells bad

If you have serious fever symptoms, let your doctor know if you have recently traveled to a different country or attended an event that had lot of people. This may help your doctor find out the cause. Common causes of a fever in adults are:

viral infection (like the flu or a cold)bacterial infectionfungal infectionfood poisoningheat exhaustionserious sunburninflammation (from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis)a tumorblood clots

Some adults may have a higher risk of getting a fever. If you have a chronic health condition or have been treated for a severe illness, you may be more likely to get a serious fever. Let your doctor know about any fever symptoms if you have:

asthma rheumatoid arthritis diabetes Crohn’s disease heart disease sickle cell disease liver diseasekidney diseasechronic lung disease cystic fibrosis cerebral palsystroke multiple sclerosis muscular dystrophyHIV or AIDS

Some medications and treatments can also lead to a serious fever, these include:

antibiotics blood pressure drugs seizure medications DTaP vaccine pneumococcal vaccine steroids chemotherapy radiation treatmentmethotrexate azathioprine cyclophosphamidepost-transplant medications

A fever is not normally harmful on its own. Most fevers go away within a few hours to days as your body defeats an infection. Help yourself feel better with these at-home flu remedies :

stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as:

waterjuicesoup broth

eat light foods that are easy on the stomachrestuse a cool compress, like a damp toweltake a warm sponge bathdress in light, comfortable clothingturn down the temperature in your room

Over-the-counter medications can help ease your fever and symptoms, like headaches and muscle pain:

ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)acetaminophen (Tylenol)naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)

You may need treatment from your doctor for more serious causes of a fever. The treatment depends on the cause. Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat serious infections:

antibiotics antivirals antifungals

A fever may be a sign of serious illness. A high fever can also cause serious side effects. Emergency Symptoms Get emergency medical attention by going to the ER or calling an ambulance if you have any of these symptoms:

seizure or convulsionsfainting or loss of consciousnessconfusionhallucinations severe headache painstiff or painful neckdifficulty breathinghives or a rashswelling in any part of the body

A fever in adults is usually not harmful on its own. It is a sign that your body is dealing with an infection or other illness. In some cases a high or long-lasting fever can be a sign of a serious illness. You may need urgent medical treatment. Do not ignore a fever.

What is the hottest temperature in the UK?

Highest temperature by country

Constituent country	Temperature	Date
England	40.3 °C (104.5 °F)	19 July 2022
Wales	37.1 °C (98.8 °F)	18 July 2022
Scotland	34.8 °C (94.6 °F)	19 July 2022
Northern Ireland	31.3 °C (88.3 °F)	21 July 2021

Do UK schools close if it’s too hot?

How hot does it need to be to cancel school in the UK? – Schools follow the same rules as workplaces – this means there is a minimum temperature but no maximum temperature which would lead to a closure. In guidance, the Health and Safety Executive says: “During working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable.” This means employers and schools have to provide “clean, fresh air”.

• They also have to keep temperatures at a comfortable level – this however is open to interpretation.
• Guidance suggests taking measures such as opening windows and doors, but rising temperatures doesn’t mean pupils will get the day off.
• Decisions are usually made by the schools individually and some could choose to relax the uniform.

Things like removing ties and blazers might be permitted to help battle the heat. There’s also no legal limit to class size – children between five and seven have a maximum class size of 30 – but it can affect the indoor temperature if more people occupy one room.

What is the hot weather policy in schools UK?

Protecting children outdoors – Teachers and other educational professionals who manage or work in schools or early years settings should sign up to receive Weather-Health Alerts from the UK Health Security Agency ( UKHSA ) and the Met Office. These alerts underpin the Adverse Weather and Health Plan,

Children should not take part in vigorous physical activity on very hot days. Uniform rules should be relaxed, especially during amber or red Heat-Health Alerts ( HHAs ), and children should wear loose, light-coloured clothing to help keep cool and sunhats with wide brims to avoid sunburn. Encourage children outdoors to stay in the shade as much as possible.

Apply sunblock or broad-band sunscreens with high sun protection factors (of at least SPF 30 and ultraviolet A ( UVA ) rating of 4 or more stars) to protect skin. Sunscreen should be applied generously and reapplied every 2 hours, and after activities that remove them, such as swimming or towelling.

What is the minimum age to leave school in the UK?

You can leave school on the last Friday in June if you’ll be 16 by the end of the summer holidays. You must then do one of the following until you’re 18: stay in full-time education, for example at a college.

Is 35 degrees too hot to work in?

Is there a maximum temperature in the workplace. If the temperarue reaches this limit can i refuse to work without fear of being sacked. | Notes and Queries | guardian.co.uk Is there a maximum temperature in the workplace. If the temperarue reaches this limit can i refuse to work without fear of being sacked. Gordon Williams, Middlesbrough, England

• As I understand it, there is no maximum temperature at which it is ‘too hot to toil’, but employers have a duty of care towards their employees, and therefore you are within your rights to put your case and ask for the tropical environs of your office to be remedied.
  • Failing that, claim a case of amazonian sunstroke and go home.
  • Vik, Hoddesdon, Herts

• No, there isn’t. Simple as that!
  2. Max Wurr, Stanmore, United Kingdom

• As a shop Steward, I am often asked this. The answer is that there is no legal maximum. However, TUC guidelines give 30 degrees celcius as the maximum recommended temperature in the workplace. This is pretty hot, and most managers in a unionised establishment will not push their luck beyond this. However, there is no automatic right to leave work.
  • John Ramsey, Hackney, London

• The HSE guidance publication, Thermal Comfort in the Workplace, seeks to define thermal comfort, and states: ‘An acceptable zone of thermal comfort for most people in the UK lies roughly between 13°C (56°F) and 30°C (86°F), with acceptable temperatures for more strenuous work activities concentrated towards the bottom end of the range, and more sedentary activities towards the higher end.’
  2. Hazel Ruxton, Houston, UK

• There is a minimum workplace temperature, but no maximum. This is because, in a traditionally temperate/coldish country like the UK, it is reasonable to expect any employer to have heating, but not necessarily air conditioning.
  • Daniel Owen, London, UK

• Sadly, no. There is a minimun, but no maximum. Time for a campaign?
  2. L Smith, Edinburgh, Scotland

• In Victoria Australia if it reaches 35 degrees you must have 20 minutes off per hour. these 20 minutes should be in an air conditioned environment at 38 degrees all work stops. If no airconditioned tea room is available they send you home.
  • Paul keelagher, Port Melbourne Australia

The workplace regulations 1992 relating to an indoor workplace say:- Regulation 7(1) “During working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable” World health organisation suggest 24c as an upper limit. Many years ago I got a question asked in the House of Lords about upper temperature. To paraphrase the ministers answer “no we are not going to adopt the WHO recommendation, over our dead bodies will an absolute upper limit be set, ” was the gist of the response. The code of practice (ACOP)puts all sorts of caveats in the way about unseasonable weather being taken into account etc. You can’t just walk out if you feel the temp is unreasonable as that could be seen as unofficial industrial action. If you believe that the temperature is injurious to your health it could be said you have a duty to remove yourself from the the Hazard under your obligations under section 7 of the Health and safety at work etc.act 1974 “it shall be the duty of every employee while at work (a) to take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and of other persons.” What it boils down to is negotiation, you have get an agreement with your employer what the definition of reasonable is and what action staff can take once the threshold is reached (thermometers are required to be provided as part of the ACOP). G Baker, S. Ockendon U.K

• Employers have to provide free drinking water during high working temperatures. Aside from this it’s just a common sense rule. if it was over 100C, yes they would have to provide some safety equipment i would imagine, plus the free water wouldn’t be there anymore! It may be uncomfortable but especially here the normal peak temperatures are rarely anywhere near remotely dangerous especially when you are under cover. The biggest risk is dehydration hence the potable water supplies requirement.
  2. Daemon,

• In China, there is a rumour that abounds, never confirmed by the government, that if the outside temperature reaches 40 degrees, all work places and schools will close as it is too hot to work. This means the temperature never officially reaches 40 degrees, as that would mean a day off work for everyone.
  • Carmel Owen, Jinan China

• I know that in schools there IS a maximum & a minimum temp, and the children within the school can refuse to work if the temp gets up to and beyond 27 deg. The minimum is, as stated above, 13 deg. But, I am aware that the children and staff within a school can refuse to work without fear of being sacked or excluded. Which may not be much use to people who work in offices or call centres.
  2. Samantha Fellows, Leeds England

• As a teacher and NASUWT rep I can confirm that there is no max temp in schools but the head has to make sure H and S plan is actioned and must assess actions needed to ensure “reasonable” working conditions – so Samantha is wrong.
  • Karen Holt, Shrewsbury, Shropshire

• I UK it should never be that hot to worry about a Max tem to work in schools/offices.In USA it can get up to 100 F in summer quite often and some places don’t have air conditioning so the kids and workers are left to get heatstroke.
  2. Debbie Martin, Garden Grove,Ca USA

• Guys where i work in vic we are in a big shed massive,but temperature gets 47 to 46 inside the shed sooo hot,we are only allowed 1 15 min brake for the day. I pour concrete is this normal and ok with the union for my work to do this? Its beyond a joke,I have been doing this for 6yrs now.
  • mat, wangaratta australia

• I work in an office where the other 2 girls like to work in temperatures above 30. It makes my eyes sting my throat burn and I feel sleepy all the time. But because they say its cold I just have to put up with it. There should be a maximum temperature, no reasonable person could possibly say its cold when its twenty-five degrees inside and insist on turning the heating up. What’s wrong with an extra jumper if your a wee cold tattie?!
  2. Annie, Dumfries Scotland

• I work in a fridge. What is the lowest temperature before I can refuse to work?
  • scott meikleham, leeds england

• In my office, there is a difference of opinion over this, split down the middle – men on one side and women on the other. The temperature in the office sometimes hits 30c, and the women still say “We’re freezing!” Every day, we have ‘Battle of the Thermostat’. the men are yet to record even a single victory. =(
  2. Workingman, London UK

• I’ve worked in hundreds of offices across the Uk and make this observation. The girls like 30 degrees because they wear light clothing, whereas the boys in their heavier trousers and shirt/tie combo sweat like hogs. Employers could change the dress code as jeans and T shirts for the boys would make the tropical climes required by the female of the species tolerable (just) to we male folk.
  • Rick, Knutsford UK

• I fully appreciate where you’re coming from, I work in a metal building, in an office and when the suns out its often up near 27C, far too hot for me. I am amazed that there is a minimum working temp as people can wear extra layers, yet no maximum. Even in a thong I would be warm!
  2. aaron, milton keynes England

• I work in a plastic moulding factory in winter it’s hot as the machines we use give off heat, but in summer it’s so so hot that you can’t breath just standing still even makes the sweat run off your face and body, we don’t have any air conditioning of any kind and we are not allowed to open any fire doors. So we all cook as we don’t get any more breaks its a disgrace.
  • Beany, Larkhall Southlanarkshire

• When you can smell the person on the other side of the room it’s too hot to work or breath.
  2. Jake Hayzen, Bristol, England

• Whilst the UK may not be reaching outside air temperatures of hotter countries many of the comments forget the greenhouse effect. I am in an old office with lots of glass and no AC. It is currenty 32C! This is with fans and windows open. I can barely work as it’s too hot to think. It has been this hot all last week as well. Max should be 28C for offices!
  • Dan, Sudbury England

• I work in an office inside a metal building and the only windows are to inside the building. It’s been over 30c for the past two days. I’ve felt lethargic and been sweating buckets. I even sweat from my head which I’ve never experienced before. I can’t breath and am not sure if I’m tired or if I’m on the verge of fainting/collapsing. I cry because I’m so hot, and drinking water isn’t helping. I came home last night with heat stroke and felt sick for hours – it was like my body was about to burst. When I asked my boss about it all I was told was “Don’t faint in the office”. Surely there should be a maximum temperature. I’m considering not even going in today.
  2. K Lewis, Chepstow, UK

• I work on an un-air-conditioned train where the temperature is getting up to 40c on these hot days.30c sounds like a dream.
  • Sweaty, London, UK

• Just like most answers, there’s not a given maximum, but I’d drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. I need a day off in this heat!
  2. Kallum Hoy, Leicester, UK

• I’m a car body repairer working as sub-contractor to the biggest car auction group in the UK. It’s 32 degrees at the moment and inside my polly building where I spray it has just hit 46 degrees. Paint is setting in my guns and drying in the air before it hits the panel. I have 140 wheels and 40 bumpers to do for Friday. I WISH there was a max temp to down tools, because I’m about to pass out!
  • G May, Manchester, UK

• I work as a pool lifeguard and although we wear short and T-shirts it’s like working in a greenhouse as it’s mostly a glass building. This week we’ve had temperatures as high as 40C. We do get time away from the poolside but this doesn’t allow you to cool down as we have other jobs to do, such as cleaning and setting up equipment.
  2. Stephen Ward, Rotherham, UK

• I work in a very busy river-side pub. We have a conservatory that is in the sun the entire day, last week the thermometer hit 54 degrees! We need a maximum work temperature; we have had many staff off sick with heat exhaustion and no one bats an eyelid. This needs to be sorted ASAP.
  • C Bradley, Bristol, UK

• I work in an Amazon warehouse in the UK where the temperature has reached 34C. Already four people have fainted and one person was sick. The managers care only about is performance which is measured in real-time via hand scanners. It’s a hot, horrible environment. If you go home early due to feeling ill, you get points which can result in being fired. How is this safe or fair?
  2. C Tucker, Rugeley, UK

• I work in a very busy fish and chip shop moving about, talking, and generally using a lot of energy. The temperatures in there sometimes sore above 30C but unfortunately that’s life. if you work in an office you probably earn a fair bit – spend a pound in Poundland and get yourself a fan.
  • Martyn Todd, Plymouth

: Is there a maximum temperature in the workplace. If the temperarue reaches this limit can i refuse to work without fear of being sacked. | Notes and Queries | guardian.co.uk

What is the hottest temperature a person can handle?

Cooling off – As warm-blooded mammals, humans have a constant body temperature, around 98 °F (37 °C). And our bodies are designed to work pretty much right at that temperature, so there’s a constant balance between heat loss and heat gain. Problems start when our bodies can’t lose heat fast enough (or lose it too fast in the cold, but let’s focus on heat for now).

When your core temperature gets too hot, everything from organs to enzymes can shut down. Extreme heat can lead to major kidney and heart problems, and even brain damage, says Liz Hanna, a former public health researcher at the Australian National University, who studies extreme heat. Your body works to maintain its core temperature in hot environments mostly by using one powerful tool: sweat.

The sweat you produce evaporates into the air, sucking heat from your skin and cooling you down. Humidity cripples this cooling method—if it’s so humid that there’s already a lot of water vapor in the air, then sweat can’t evaporate as quickly, and sweating won’t cool you down as much.

Extreme heat can lead to major kidney and heart problems, and even brain damage. Researchers like Mora and his team often use measures like heat index or wet-bulb temperature to consider how excessive heat and humidity interact. This way, they can focus on a single number to identify unlivable conditions.

Heat index is an estimate that you’ve probably seen in weather reports; it factors in both heat and humidity to represent how the weather feels. Wet-bulb temperature is literally what a thermometer measures if a wet cloth is wrapped around it. (The temperature in the forecast is technically a dry-bulb temperature, since it’s measured with a dry thermometer.) Wet-bulb temperature can estimate what your skin temperature would be if you were constantly sweating, so it’s often used to approximate how people would fare in extreme heat.

1. A wet-bulb temperature of 35 °C, or around 95 °F, is pretty much the absolute limit of human tolerance, says Zach Schlader, a physiologist at Indiana University Bloomington.
2. Above that, your body won’t be able to lose heat to the environment efficiently enough to maintain its core temperature.
3. That doesn’t mean the heat will kill you right away, but if you can’t cool down quickly, brain and organ damage will start.

The conditions that can lead to a wet-bulb temperature of 95 °F vary greatly. With no wind and sunny skies, an area with 50% humidity will hit an unlivable wet-bulb temperature at around 109 °F, while in mostly dry air, temperatures would have to top 130 °F to reach that limit.

Some climate models predict that we’re going to start hitting wet-bulb temperatures over 95 °F by the middle of the 21st century. Other researchers say we’re already there. In a study published in 2020, researchers showed that some places in the subtropics have already reported such conditions—and they’re getting more common.

While most researchers agree that a wet-bulb temperature of 95 °F is unlivable for most humans, the reality is that less extreme conditions can be deadly too. We’ve only hit those wet-bulb temperatures on Earth a few times, but heat kills people around the world every year.

Do I have to work in a heatwave?

What are my rights in the workplace? – Temperatures in the workplace are covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which place a legal obligation on employers to provide a “reasonable” temperature in the workplace. This means the minimum temperature required of a typical office – one that does not require physical exertion – is 16C.

But there is currently no legal requirement for offices to keep offices below a maximum temperature. That being said, employers do have a duty of care towards their employees, says Jonathan White, Legal and Compliance Director at National Accident Helpline. He added: “Employers are expected to do whatever is ‘reasonably practicable’ to safeguard their workers’ wellbeing, and they must provide a safe environment where staff are not at risk of falling ill from the heat.

“It is ultimately up to the employer to decide if it is too hot to work, but if you are uncomfortable, then you should speak to your employer.” Read more: How to double your pension at the press of a button

Is 23 degrees too hot for an office?

Solution – Because everyone reacts differently to varying levels of heat, there never will be a perfect office temperature. There is, however, a generally agreed consensus based upon a wide range of studies that points to an optimal temperature lying between 20 °C and 23 °C.

• In most offices this will no doubt remain contentious, so the best course of action is to choose a heating system which allows for the upmost flexibility.
• Electric radiators make a great choice for offices because they are individually controlled with their own thermostats, making it easy to select different temperatures for different office zones.

This makes it possible, like never before, to reach diplomatic solutions in the deeply divided war of ideas that has become an unfortunate institution in office life. Image Sources http://library.gwu.edu/news-events/posts/addressing-temperature-complaints-gelman http://www.mobilkyla.se/kyla-ac/ http://www.today.com/health/office-air-conditioning-cold-women-science-reveals-why-t36476 http://www.reece.com.au/outlet/2015/nov/why-men-and-women-battle-over-the-office-temperature http://news.nationalgeographic.com/energy/2015/08/150803-gender-bias-affects-office-heating-cooling-temperatures/ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2365434/UK-weather-Mercury-expected-rise-32C-making-today-hottest-day-year.html

How many people were killed at work in the UK during 2016 17?

Health and safety statistics on work-related injury, ill health, enforcement and costs in Great Britain are released annually by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Key findings for 2016-17 are:

1.3 million working people suffering from a work-related illness 2,542 mesothelioma deaths due to past asbestos exposures (2015) 137 workers killed at work 609,000 injuries at work, according to the Labour Force Survey 70,116 injuries to employees reported under RIDDOR 31.2 million working days lost due to work-related illness and workplace injury £14.9 billion estimated cost of injuries and ill health from current working conditions (2015-16)

See the summary statistics, including European comparisons.

What temperature is too low for a person?

What is hypothermia? – Hypothermia is a condition that occurs when the body’s temperature drops below 95° F (35° C). Normal body temperature is 98.6° F (37° C). Hypothermia is a medical emergency. When a person’s body temperature is dangerously low, the brain and body cannot function properly. Left untreated, hypothermia can lead to cardiac arrest (heart stops beating) and death.

What temperature do schools close in Australia?

Is there a school policy for heatwaves? – ABC News

• With parts of, many people think there is a magic number the mercury has to hit before children get sent home from school.
• But if you thought school might be finishing early today, think again.
• No state government or territory in Australia has a set temperature which forces a public school to close, but there are varying guidelines on how to deal with the heat.

Can a school open without hot water UK?

hot water and heating The forum to discuss work issues, Health and Safety, COSHH, Risk Assessments, Security. Moderators:,,, Registered Member Posts: 794 Joined: 16th, October 2014 at 10:22am Hi guys, were having mental problems with our boiler atm and it keeps going into fault. i have engineers coming out to look at it and doing certain things, what i want to know is what is the law surrounding opening/shutting with no hot water or heating- even if it is at most none for a few hours Opinions are like Derry-airs, everyone has one, but some stink and are full of the brown stuff Registered Member Posts: 1235 Joined: 31st, August 2011 at 8:24pm Heating I think you can get away with for a bit, but it depends on how cold it is really. I’ve literally only just switched mine on yesterday, and we had out first frost overnight. Hot water is a bit more tricky, especially in the current climate (covid etc).

In addition to hand washing, can the kitchen adequately clean stuff up after lunch? Are you able to clean floors? Is it the whole school, or just part of it? I’d let whoever your line manager know whoever that is – BM, Site Manager, Deputy, Head etc, and leave the decision to them. Personally in the current climate I would probably suggest a closure in the interest of hygiene, and let them make the call.

Does your hot water last until a certain time? If it runs out around lunchtime then maybe you open up until lunch but close in the afternoon(s) until the problem is sorted. At least with the cold you can layer up, or leave coats on for a bit. Kids aren’t the cleanest of creatures at the best of times, if you can’t supply them hot water to wash their hands properly. Posts: 2526 Joined: 28th, June 2019 at 8:36am Best you can do is to ensure the head is fully aware of the situation and let him/her make the call based on all the information you have. As mentioned hot water is the critical one the kitchens and cleaners at least must have adequate hot water at or around the 60 degrees C mark for effective cleaning during the whole of their working hours. Posts: 285 Joined: 6th, February 2019 at 4:12pm Generally you can manage without hot water for a few days if necessary, it shouldn’t involve closing the school. Last time we had it happen we spoke to the kitchen / LA, they have plans in place and their cleaning products are designed to work effectively with cold water, the same as soap should still be as effective at washing hands etc. Posts: 357 Joined: 4th, September 2020 at 4:50pm Yeah, as Steve says, I’m pretty sure there is actually no real requirement for hot water. After all when it comes out of the tap, it’s not actually hot enough to kill any germs at a useable temperature, it’s just more comfortable and maybe slightly more effective at removing oils from the skin.

Do the kitchen not have a dishwasher that will heat up the water it uses anyway? Even heating.you know the reason viruses are more prevalent in winter is mainly due to our heating systems and the way those viruses prefer warm/humid conditions. And unless it’s arctic temperatures outside, again there is no requirement for a specific temperature.

It should just be “comfortable”.which is open to interpretation. So, in terms of “would the school get in trouble” for a brief period of no hot water or heating. I would say no. Though, like Vera says, leave the decision making to the ringmasters. Registered Member Posts: 631 Joined: 23rd, February 2021 at 3:02pm Yes you need hot water. The Education Act and the similar regs covering independant schools both require hot water, hand basins and showers. Showers are manadatory for schools with children over 11. The Health and Safety at Work Act also requires hot water. Posts: 6119 Joined: 1st, November 2008 at 5:38pm If that happened i informed the BM and she sorted it other wise i just carried on as normal in my daily routine and got her to chase them up when necessary, also logged everything. -Wink.png- Sigillum Militum Xpisti (The Seal of the Soldier of Christ) Registered Member Posts: 361 Joined: 19th, November 2013 at 8:14am That’s a decision to be left with the Headteacher/Duty Holder. I would just keep a paper trail of everything you say or suggest. Registered Member Posts: 357 Joined: 4th, September 2020 at 4:50pm wrote: 2nd, November 2021 at 2:30pm Yes you need hot water. The Education Act and the similar regs covering independant schools both require hot water, hand basins and showers. Showers are manadatory for schools with children over 11.

The Health and Safety at Work Act also requires hot water. Heating is more ambiguous, the HSE recommended air temps vary according to activity, but 16C generally 13C for active activities. Theses are not legally binding. But what you’re referring to is from a design perspective. A temporary breakdown – as long as it’s actioned promptly – is a completely different tin of tuna.

And pretty sure that the education act has no reference to premises management, let alone hot water. I could be wrong.I’ve never read it.looks boring. Registered Member Posts: 631 Joined: 23rd, February 2021 at 3:02pm It is boring, but the statutory instruments are not just for design. Certainly there is a specification aspect, but in recent years it has become contemporary with it’s use. So if something must be suitable it must remain so. The HSAW Act operates all the time clearly. : hot water and heating

What to do if a child is injured at school UK?

If something goes wrong – Contact the HSE if there’s an accident or incident and you want advice about health and safety. Who decides the health and safety policy and has ultimate responsibility for the health and safety of your child at school depends on the type of school.

Can schools close because of heat UK?

How hot does it need to be to cancel school in the UK? – Schools follow the same rules as workplaces – this means there is a minimum temperature but no maximum temperature which would lead to a closure. In guidance, the Health and Safety Executive says: “During working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable.” This means employers and schools have to provide “clean, fresh air”.

1. They also have to keep temperatures at a comfortable level – this however is open to interpretation.
2. Guidance suggests taking measures such as opening windows and doors, but rising temperatures doesn’t mean pupils will get the day off.
3. Decisions are usually made by the schools individually and some could choose to relax the uniform.

Things like removing ties and blazers might be permitted to help battle the heat. There’s also no legal limit to class size – children between five and seven have a maximum class size of 30 – but it can affect the indoor temperature if more people occupy one room.

Do schools close for the summer in England?

How long are the summer holidays? – This autumn, many students will likely return to school on or around Monday, September 4. However, this will vary by school or LEA. Children attending state schools in England and Wales typically take a six-week summer holiday before starting school again at the beginning of September.

What is the hot weather policy in schools UK?

Protecting children outdoors – Teachers and other educational professionals who manage or work in schools or early years settings should sign up to receive Weather-Health Alerts from the UK Health Security Agency ( UKHSA ) and the Met Office. These alerts underpin the Adverse Weather and Health Plan,

• Children should not take part in vigorous physical activity on very hot days.
• Uniform rules should be relaxed, especially during amber or red Heat-Health Alerts ( HHAs ), and children should wear loose, light-coloured clothing to help keep cool and sunhats with wide brims to avoid sunburn.
• Encourage children outdoors to stay in the shade as much as possible.

Apply sunblock or broad-band sunscreens with high sun protection factors (of at least SPF 30 and ultraviolet A ( UVA ) rating of 4 or more stars) to protect skin. Sunscreen should be applied generously and reapplied every 2 hours, and after activities that remove them, such as swimming or towelling.

Can a child go to school with a temperature UK?

Sore throat – You can still send your child to school if they have a sore throat, But if they also have a high temperature, they should stay at home until it goes away. A sore throat and a high temperature can be symptoms of tonsillitis,