Time off work due to extremely hot weather - is that possible?

Temperatures are climbing above 30 degrees Celsius and the sun is blazing down from the sky.

Summer is not always a pleasure, especially for people with physically demanding jobs.

At school, there is pupils get time off during such times - but does this also apply to working life? And what do you as a company need to do to support your employees against the heat in the workplace?

In Austria, there is no general regulation for extensive heat waves that governs the right of employees to time off work. This means that there is no legal entitlement to free days at high temperatures in Austria.

In consultation with their line manager, employees can take time off or vacation in extreme heat. If the company grants "heat-free days", this is considered time off work and no vacation days or time quotas may be used for this purpose.

As a general rule, the indoor climate must be adapted to the human organism. In detail, this means that it must be possible to reduce solar radiation, the humidity should be adjustable and, ideally, the temperature should also be adjustable.

In the construction industry, heat above 32.5 degrees counts as bad weather and is therefore covered by the Construction Workers' Bad Weather Compensation Act (BSchEG). Employees can apply for time off in hot weather and in this case receive at least 60% of their hourly wage from their employer.

With these 5 tips, you can create additional coolness in your company's workplace:

#1 Ventilate at night, block out the sun during daytime
Opening the windows in the evening can help to keep the room temperature low. Airing the room early in the morning also helps to regulate the room temperature. During the day, windows should be closed and direct sunlight largely avoided, e.g. by using blinds or roller blinds.

#2 Relax the dress code
If your company has a dress code, adapting it can make a big difference. Airy clothing made of cotton or linen is suitable for business and can be a great relief in hot weather.
When working outdoors, headgear, sunscreen and sunglasses are a must for personal sun protection.

#3 Fans and mini air conditioners
Fans don't cool the air, but they do help keep the air circulating and not stagnant. Mini air conditioners or air coolers are an inexpensive alternative and can provide some temporary relief.

#4 Drink, drink, drink
Water, unsweetened fruit juices or tea are best. Frozen fruit in water can provide variety. An alternative from warmer countries is lukewarm tea, as this helps your body to equalize its temperature.
Offer cool drinks or a tea bar in your company for your employees to cool down.

#5 Breaks & cooling down in between
Offer your employees the opportunity to take more breaks. This allows them to refresh themselves in between. For example, you can put towels in the freezer compartment and offer your employees a cool towel.
Your employees will also appreciate an ice cream or chilled fruit.

Remember that performance and concentration levels can drop by up to 70% on hot days.

Make it easier for your employees to work on hot days and create a pleasant working environment.

Interested in finding out more? Then stay tuned!