Leipzig is burning: Heat wave demands heat-free days for employees!

Leipzig is burning: Heat wave demands heat-free days for employees!

Leipzig is experiencing a heat wave today that is becoming a challenge for many employees: temperatures over 35 degrees Celsius are on the agenda! Accordingly, the Green Party parliamentary group is calling for greater heat protection in the workplace. She suggests that employers are obliged to take health protection measures above 26 degrees Celsius. This demand is supported by the Leipzig Greens, who are calling for heat-free days if appropriate protective measures are missing. A sensible step because high temperatures can have serious health consequences such as difficulty concentrating, headaches and nausea. This is reported by the Leipziger Volkszeitung.

Did you know that employers are obliged to ensure the health of their employees under the Occupational Safety and Health Act? If indoor temperatures exceed 26 degrees Celsius, they are encouraged to implement appropriate measures such as additional breaks and providing fluids. At extreme temperatures, which can be up to 40 degrees Celsius, a room above 35 degrees Celsius is no longer considered a suitable workplace, as ZDF today explains.

Measures and challenges

Employers' duty of care plays a central role in times like these. Outdoor businesses, particularly those in the construction industry, often have to adjust their working hours to escape the harsh conditions of the midday sun. At REIF Baugesellschaft, work starts earlier in the day and break times are extended. Extreme cases can even result in work being stopped at 2pm if the heat becomes unbearable.

But not only construction companies, but also large facilities such as the Leipzig University Hospital are facing challenges. Working hours cannot be adjusted here, but comprehensive heat protection measures are taken. This includes, among other things, drinking quantity and room temperature controls as well as the provision of 180 water dispensers for employees, patients and visitors.

Legal and health aspects

The health risks should not be underestimated. Experts warn that high temperatures can lead to exhaustion, circulatory problems and, in the worst case, even sunstroke. Every employer should therefore keep an eye on the health burden on their employees and take appropriate measures to protect them. This is particularly true given the recommendations of the Technical Rules for Workplaces (ASR), which state that the air temperature in work areas should not exceed 26 degrees Celsius. At higher temperatures, employers are required to ensure the well-being of their employees.

The DGUV emphasizes that the climate at the workplace is influenced by various factors such as air temperature, air speed and humidity. A risk assessment is required to protect health and performance. It is recommended to implement technical, organizational and personal protective measures.

Overall, society now faces the challenge of creating health-promoting working conditions while at the same time protecting the interests of employers. This is the only way to find a balance that protects both the performance of employees and their health.