2026 has started cold, and it is important to make sure that all workers are sufficiently protected whilst working in low temperatures and wintry conditions. This means that employers and employees should be making a determined effort to keep warm, especially if working outside.
What do the Regulations Say?
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations require employers to provide a reasonable indoor temperature in the workplace, depending on the work activity and the environmental conditions. When working externally, protection should be provided to help with the adverse consequences of the elements.
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations require reasonable workplace temperatures for indoor areas of construction sites. Where the site is outdoors, protection must be provided from adverse weather conditions. Site rest facilities must also be maintained at an appropriate temperature.
Working Indoors
The temperature should be maintained at a minimum of 16 degrees centigrade, or 13 degrees centigrade if the work is physically demanding. This can be done by heating workplaces (radiators, portable heaters, etc.) or providing work clothing or PPE to manage the weather conditions.
Top tips:
- Be aware that whilst some PPE can provide warmth, it needs to be appropriate to the workplace conditions. Workers should remain vigilant to ensure they do not become overheated if the working temperatures increase or conditions change.
- Employers should reduce the times that workers are exposed to cold temperatures or work with cold products. This could, for example, include job rotation or regular breaks away from the cold to warm up.
- This can also translate to floors. Where workers are standing for long periods on cold floors, then either insulate the floor with a covering or provide insulated footwear.
- Where a constant temperature cannot be provided throughout a workplace due to work processes or conditions, localised heating should be used instead of or as well as central heating. However, it is important that there are no hazardous or offensive fumes from these.
- Where there is a draught, remove or reduce it, whilst still ensuring that adequate ventilation occurs.
- Rest facilities should bring respite from work conditions. When working in cold conditions, there should be access to hot drinks and warmth during rest periods.
Working Outdoors
Employers should provide wet-weather gear and/or work clothing that will protect from temperature extremes and weather conditions. In cold, wintry conditions, this means:
- Headgear should look to safety and comfort (try to stop body heat escaping from the head).
- Where necessary, goggles for the eyes to prevent tearing up, especially if the wind is blowing hard and good vision is a necessity.
- Suitable workwear to help manage an individual’s warmth by keeping their core temperature stable.
- Employers need to keep an individual’s extremities as safe as possible; for example, fingers and toes should remain frostbite-free.
- Employers should provide, and employees should wear appropriate footwear: flat, low-heeled shoes or boots with good grip or slip-resistant soles.
- Considering the provision of drying facilities for wet clothing.
Risk of Slips and Trips
Slip and trip hazards increase when the weather affects walking surfaces. With over a third of all major workplace injuries being the result of a slip, trip, or fall, anything done to reduce the risk of this repeating itself must be worthwhile.
A common saying related to cold weather and the risk of slipping and tripping is to “Walk like a Penguin”. This technique helps maintain balance and reduce the risk of serious injury on icy or snowy surfaces.
- Point toes outward – Angle feet slightly outwards to broaden the base of support.
- Bend knees slightly – Keep knees relaxed, not stiff.
- Keep centre of gravity over feet – Walk flat-footed with short, slow, shuffling steps.
- Extend arms for balance – Keep hands out of pockets and extend arms to the side to help with stability.
Other Cold Working Considerations
- Plan journeys – Allow plenty of time for travel and avoid rushing, as haste increases the likelihood of an accident occurring.
- Be aware of surroundings – Watch out for black ice, wet leaves, and uneven surfaces, especially in shaded areas or at night.
- Clear paths – If possible, clear snow and ice from walkways using salt or sand to minimise slippiness.
- Use handrails – Always use available handrails on stairs or ramps for extra support.
- Carry a phone – Carry a charged mobile phone when working outside so that calls can be made for help, if needed.
- Check on others – Look out for elderly or vulnerable workmates who may be at more risk.
If it is felt that there are concerns regarding the temperatures that workers are encountering in the workplace, then we do provide a Workplace Temperature Checklist. This is available on our H&S Client Portal, or please get in touch for further help.
If you need any assistance with the matters raised in this newsletter, please do not hesitate to contact us.