Workplace Temperature Laws: What UK Businesses Need to Know

July 31st, 2026

Last updated: July 17th, 2026

Keeping employees comfortable is about more than improving morale. Workplace temperature can affect productivity and other aspects of health and safety. If an office is too hot, staff may struggle to focus. If it’s too cold, comfort and performance can quickly decline.

Many employers assume there are strict legal temperature limits in the UK, but the law is actually a little more flexible. Instead of setting a maximum temperature, it places a responsibility on employers to provide a safe and reasonable working environment and manage any risks created by excessive heat or cold.

What Do Workplace Temperature Laws Say?

UK workplace temperature laws are mainly covered by the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

For indoor workplaces, the HSE advises that the temperature should normally be at least:

• 16°C for workplaces carrying out sedentary work, such as offices.
• 13°C where employees are undertaking rigorous physical work.

Many people are surprised to learn there is no legal maximum workplace temperature in the UK. This is because every workplace is different. A commercial kitchen or foundry will naturally operate at much higher temperatures than an office.

Employers are expected to assess the risks and take reasonable steps to keep employees comfortable and safe.

Although not a legal requirement, Acas notes that many offices are generally most comfortable at temperatures between 18°C and 24°C.

When Temperatures Become Too Hot

High workplace temperatures can increase fatigue and make physical work more demanding. We all know how it feels to try and get things done in the heat. In some environments, excessive heat may also increase the risk of dehydration or heat stress.

Employers should carry out a risk assessment and consider practical ways to reduce the impact of heat.

Simple measures may include improving airflow or or relaxing dress codes where appropriate.

From a building management perspective, ensuring air conditioning systems are properly maintained is one of the most effective ways to control indoor temperatures. An air conditioning system that has not been serviced regularly may struggle to cool the building efficiently, particularly during warmer weather.

If existing equipment is ageing or frequently breaking down, replacing it with a more energy-efficient system may improve comfort while reducing energy costs.

When Workplaces Become Too Cold

Cold workplaces can also create problems, particularly during the winter months or in large industrial buildings.

If heating systems are not performing properly, employees may struggle to stay comfortable, especially in offices where people spend long periods sitting at desks.

Routine boiler servicing helps ensure heating systems operate efficiently throughout the colder months. Small faults can often be identified before they develop into complete breakdowns.

Ventilation Is Just as Important

Temperature is only one part of creating a comfortable workplace. Fresh air and good ventilation also contribute to employee wellbeing. Poor airflow can leave offices feeling stuffy. Humidity can make warm conditions feel even more uncomfortable.

Maintaining ventilation systems and ensuring air can circulate properly helps improve indoor air quality while supporting a more consistent working environment.

Be Proactive

Rather than waiting until staff complain about temperatures, businesses benefit from taking a proactive approach.

Regular maintenance of heating and cooling systems helps reduce the risk of unexpected failures during periods of extreme weather. It also allows equipment to operate more efficiently. This may reduce energy consumption over time.

Many organisations include heating and air conditioning within their planned preventative maintenance programme so that systems continue performing when they are needed most.

Creating a Comfortable Workplace

Workplace temperature laws in the UK focus on providing a reasonable and safe working environment rather than imposing strict maximum temperature limits. Employers have a duty to assess risks and take practical steps whenever heat or cold begins affecting employees.

Maintaining comfortable temperatures often comes down to looking after the building itself. Regular servicing of equipment and effective ventilation all help create a workplace where employees can work safely and comfortably throughout the year.