Even though it's only the beginning of June, the typical summer aura persists. Due to the heat wave, Norwegian Labor Inspectorate (Norwegian: Arbeidstilsynet) was flooded with inquiries from employees. They mainly concern whether you can work when the temperature in the office is too high.
Like us on Facebook you will always be up to date.
Labor Inspectorate: the heat is not an excuse
In connection with these inquiries, the Labor Inspectorate issued an official announcement on June 1. There is one conclusion that can be drawn from it - high temperatures are not an excuse to leave the workplace. Even if they exceed 22 degrees Celsius inside the building.
Ventilation and… understanding
Norwegian law clearly states - the average temperature in the office should be the aforementioned 22 degrees Celsius. The employer should ensure that it does not exceed 26 degrees and does not fall below 19 degrees. In an excessively warm room, the employee becomes sleepy and tired. However, if the employer overdoes air conditioning, problems may arise, for example, with muscle stiffness or rheumatological complaints.
Provide protection
However, during the summer and spring period, the employer is obliged to ensure that employees have the best possible working conditions. This applies to issues such as protection against UV radiation (e.g. internal blinds) as well as ensuring access to drinks. The Labor Inspectorate also advises that employees should have the right to take more frequent breaks from work.
No legal possibility of delegation
From the message Labor Inspectorate it is therefore clear - there is no legal possibility of posting employees to work from home as a result of high temperatures. However, it is the employer's responsibility to ensure the best possible working conditions. It must also take into account the decline in employee productivity. Depending on the organism, it may be from several to several dozen percent.
