In the face of heatwaves, the Minister of Employment, David Clarinval, points out that when it is too hot at work, employees are entitled to a number of protective measures. He also stresses the importance of anticipation and therefore of carrying out a risk analysis beforehand in cases of exposure to high temperatures.
According to the Code on Well-being at Work, employers are required to implement specific prevention measures to protect the health and safety of workers and to carry out a risk analysis beforehand.
What is meant by “high temperatures”? This protection is not triggered based on a simple thermometer, but on the WBGT index (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature), which measures actual heat stress by taking into account temperature, humidity, solar radiation and air circulation. The intervention thresholds vary depending on the intensity of the work: 29°C for light work, 26°C for moderate work, 22°C for heavy work and 18°C for very heavy work. Once these thresholds are reached, the employer must take the necessary measures to guarantee the health and safety of workers.
These measures include, among other things, protecting workers from direct sunlight, adapting workstations and work organisation, providing refreshing and suitable drinks to be consumed regularly during work, and adapting work rhythms. Rest periods must be scheduled during the day depending on the level of heat stress and the duration of exposure, based on the risk assessment carried out.
Compliance with these measures can be checked by the Inspectorate for Well-being at Work. The prevention adviser or the occupational physician can also inform staff and provide preventive advice.