Government vs. heat in the workplace: Learning about climate change the hard way
The summer heatwaves have prompted the government to take steps towards implementing new regulations for working in high temperatures. The Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Policy is preparing a law that will have a positive impact on the comfort and health of employees.
The weather in Poland is quite unpredictable. Sometimes, the first of April feels like July with intense heat, while other times, hail falls from the sky. This variability is indicative of climate change. Denial is futile, as unseasonable weather phenomena and unusually high summer temperatures lasting until the end of September clearly demonstrate that the Earth is signalling that all is not well.
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How to cope with high temperatures?
During hot weather, it's essential to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and use sunscreen to prevent sunburn and fainting. It's also helpful to have basic knowledge of first aid to assist someone who faints, especially in public places like a bus.
On hot days, air conditioning or a fan can relieve the heat, although not everyone may have access to them. Enduring high temperatures at work is challenging, but the Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Policy has announced new regulations protecting workers from the heat.
Government considers potential changes to work temperature laws
According to current health and safety regulations, the minimum temperatures for work duties are as follows:
- 18 degrees Celsius for light physical work and office work;
- 14 degrees Celsius for other cases.
There is no specified maximum temperature in the law. However, OSH (BHP) regulations require employers to provide cold drinks for employees if the indoor temperature exceeds 28 degrees or the outdoor temperature exceeds 25 degrees.
Minister of Family, Labour and Social Policy Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk has mentioned that due to the impact of climate change ("We are learning about it the hard way"), many countries are considering the need for standardised regulations to address temperature-related work conditions.
When will work temperature laws come into force?
"Numerous regulations are currently spread across various pieces of legislation. The Ministry of Labour, Family, and Social Policy aims to create a comprehensive set of guidelines as a first step. This initiative, termed 'good labour climate,' seeks to make existing employee entitlements and rights clear, easily understandable, and readily accessible," stated Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk.
While the outcomes of the government's efforts will be revealed by the end of the month, it is unlikely that the regulations will take effect before next year.
Source: tvn24.pl
