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Cold weather advice for workplaces

How to stay safe and healthy during periods of extreme cold, practical advice, the benefits, and things employers can do to help employees.

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What employers can do

Employers have an important role in creating conditions that make it easier for employees to stay safe and healthy during extreme cold.

Actions that support both equity and protection include:

Provide guidance on staying warm and preventing cold-related illness

Share clear advice with staff about wearing layered clothing, keeping extremities covered and staying dry.

Encourage staff to avoid prolonged exposure to the cold

Adjust schedules so that outdoor or cold-exposed tasks are done during warmer parts of the day where possible.

Allow flexible working hours or extra breaks during cold periods

Give staff the option to take additional warm-up breaks or limit time spent outside in cold conditions.

Ensure workplaces are well-heated and insulated

Use heating systems, draft-proofing, or warm rest areas to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

As an employer, you must decide what a reasonable temperature should be in your workplace.

Regulations suggest the minimum temperature for working indoors should normally be at least: 16°C or 13°C if much of the work involves rigorous physical effort.

Visit the HSE website to find out more about temperature in the workplace.

 

Provide access to warm drinks and sheltered areas

Make hot drinks and warm spaces available to staff throughout the day.

Make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees or those with health conditions

Provide extra support, rest areas, or modified duties for employees who are more vulnerable to cold.

Raise awareness of cold-related risks and share safety advice

Remind staff about the signs of hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold stress symptoms and the steps they can take to prevent them.

Train managers to recognise signs of cold-related illness

Equip supervisors to spot symptoms such as shivering, numbness, or confusion and take prompt action.

Encourage staff to report if they feel unwell or need support

Promote a culture where employees feel comfortable speaking up about cold-related concerns.

Protect people working outdoors

Ensure the personal protective equipment (PPE) issued is appropriate.

Find out more about PPE and workplace temperature on the HSE website.

 

Further advice can be found from Public Health Wales, ACAS and the MET office.

Information:

Remember: stay warm, stay connected, and stay safe. Help is available if you need it.

Page last reviewed: 1st December 2025