Keeping the workplace warm in winter
16°C is the lowest suggested temperate for a workplace, but is that reasonable?
The law works on reasonable practicality.
If you can do it, you should.
What should you do?
A risk assessment.
This is the first step in determining how harmful the environment might be for workers.
There are lots of things to consider:
Someone sat at a desk in the cold is going to struggle more than someone working actively.
Extremities (head, hands, feet) need to be protected. Hands can be especially difficult as they are used for almost every activity.
What is the temperature in different areas of work?
What controls are there to keep a comfortable working temperature?
What are the implications of working in cold temperatures and over what period of time?
What activities are being carried out? How does this impact body temperature?
What clothing is worn, is it suitable?