11/01/2010 - Staff complain about cold workplace
Increasing numbers of employees have been contacting a leading union to complain about being cold in the workplace.
The GMB said it had received calls from a number of its members, as well as the public, on the legal temperature for the workplace and the provision of warm clothing and hot drinks for those who work outdoors.
The temperature inside the workplace should be at a minimum of 16 degree Celsius, and for those in physical jobs a minimum of 13 degrees Celsius, the GMB said.
John McClean, the GMB's health and safety officer, said firms must by law provide additional heaters if the temperature falls below these levels.
He added: "For those working outside, the employer is obliged to undertake a risk assessment and where necessary provide appropriate thermal clothing and regular breaks for hot drinks.
"Those exposed to risks of falls in slippery conditions may need to be redeployed to suitable alternative work if gritting cannot be done or if the ice cannot be removed. Many GMB members in refuse collection and street cleaning, for example, have been moved to work with gritting teams."
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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