A regulation amending the provisions on general occupational health and safety regulations has been published in the Journal of Laws. This regulation introduces, for the first time, maximum permissible temperatures during work. The new regulations define employers' obligations related to protecting employees from the effects of high temperatures in workrooms and outdoors.
Maximum temperature in the workplace
The new regulations introduce a rule according to which the temperature in work rooms cannot exceed 35°C. In the case of work performed outdoors and involving physical exertion (resulting in an effective energy expenditure of more than 1,500 kcal (6,280 kJ) for men and 1,000 kcal (4,187 kJ) for women during a work shift), the maximum temperature cannot exceed 32°C. These restrictions will not apply if ensuring a lower temperature is impossible for technological reasons.
Importantly, the regulations introduce a ban on performing work when the temperature – due to weather conditions – exceeds the specified limits.
The regulations provide for certain exemptions. The maximum temperature rules will not apply to uniformed officers and soldiers, among others.
Employer's obligations
The new regulations require employers to take protective measures even at lower temperatures.
If the temperature in the work premises exceeds 28°C – for ordinary work or 25°C – for work involving physical effort, the employer will be obliged to:
- provide appropriate technical solutions to reduce or limit the increase in this temperature, unless technological reasons do not allow it, or
- apply appropriate organizational solutions to minimize the impact of temperature on employees' health – depending on the conditions and specificity of work.
In the case of work in open spaces, the obligation to apply organizational solutions arises when the temperature exceeds 25°C.
Consultations with employees
The method of organizing work in high temperature conditions will be determined after consultation with employees – within the framework of the occupational health and safety committee or in the manner provided for in the Labour Code if an occupational health and safety committee has not been established.
The employer will also be obliged to inform employees about the adopted organizational solutions.
Summary
The introduction of maximum working temperatures means adapting work organization to new health and safety requirements. Employers should specifically analyze workstations exposed to high temperatures and develop procedures.
The regulation enters into force 6 months after the date of its publication, i.e. on 11 January 2027.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
The law is current as of July 16, 2026.
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