Temperatures are set to hit up to 29 and 30 degrees in parts of the country today and tomorrow as Met Eireann have issued weather warnings for eight counties today
A woman working on a laptop at a desk with a fan, demonstrating a comfortable and focused home office setup during warm weather.(Image: Getty Images)
Met Éireann has forecast highs of “29 or 30” degrees over the next couple of days and issued high temperature warnings for eight counties.
On Tuesday morning, a Status Yellow high temperature warning was issued for Clare, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Galway, Kilkenny, Laois and Offaly.
It is set to come into effect from 12 pm on Tuesday and expire at 6 pm on Wednesday.
Met Éireann warned: “Maximum temperatures in excess of 27°C combined with night-time minima in excess of 15°C expected.”
In the UK, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) has called for the introduction of a maximum temperature for workplaces to protect people as heatwaves become more common due to climate change.
With this in mind, Dublin-based office brokers Click Offices have shared guidance on what the current Irish law states in relation to working during warm weather. While Ireland does not have a legally defined maximum workplace temperature, there are regulations that address workplace conditions in hot weather. Here’s a look at some lesser-known laws and guidelines that impact workers during heatwaves.
There’s no maximum temperature limit for the workplace
Unlike some EU countries, Ireland does not currently enforce a maximum temperature limit for workplaces. However, there have previously been calls to introduce legislation similar to Germany (26°C) and Spain (27°C) for indoor work. In 2022, the Labour Party has proposed setting a 30°C limit, aligning with recommendations from the European Trade Union Congress.
Employers have to provide “Reasonable” ventilation for workers
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, employers must ensure proper ventilation in enclosed workplaces. While the law does not specify temperature thresholds, it does require that air quality and circulation are sufficient to prevent discomfort.
Outdoor workers must have special protections
For those working outdoors, Regulation 23 of the 2007 workplace regulations mandates that employers take measures to protect workers from extreme weather conditions. This includes providing shade, hydration and appropriate clothing.
Workplaces don’t have to pay you if you’re absent due to the weather
If an employee cannot attend work due to extreme weather, there is no automatic right to paid leave. However, employers are encouraged to take a long-term view and consider flexible arrangements, such as remote work or adjusted hours.
Workplaces have a legal duty to protect pregnant workers in extreme temperatures
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must assess risks and implement measures to protect pregnant employees. Pregnant workers can be more vulnerable to heat stress, as pregnancy affects body temperature regulation, circulation, and hydration needs. Employers in Ireland are legally required to make reasonable accommodations to ensure a safe working environment for pregnant employees, including during periods of extreme heat.
Employers don’t need to give you notice for shift changes in extreme weather
Under normal circumstances, Irish employment law requires that employees receive at least 24 hours’ notice before any change to their work schedule. This ensures fairness, predictability, and allows workers to plan accordingly. However, in cases of extreme weather events, such as storms, flooding, or severe heat waves, this requirement can be overridden.
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