In France, summers are increasingly synonymous with heatwaves. If it's hard to get to work in the heat, it can be even harder to work peacefully when the premises are not equipped accordingly. So what does the French Labor Code say about temperatures above which you can refuse to work? There are no regulations, but the CNAMTS does give some recommendations.
Regulations governing extreme temperatures
According to the regulations, there is no maximum temperature above which an employee can refuse to work. However, employees may exercise their right to withdraw from work if they feel their health is in danger.
To ensure the safety of their employees, employers must provide fresh water, protective equipment adapted to these high temperatures, and ensure that the air in the premises is well ventilated and renewed. In addition, thermal risks must be included in the Document Unique d'Évaluation des Risques.
💡 Read our articles on your rights and obligations in the event of a heatwave.
Temperatures not to be exceeded, according to CNAMTS
Despite the absence of regulations, certain indications can help guide the decision to refuse to work. For example, standard NF X35-203/ISO 7730 indicates that a temperature range of 23 to 26 degrees Celsius is ideal for working in the summer.
The CNAMTS (Caisse Nationale de l'Assurance Maladie des Travailleurs Salariés) recommends a maximum threshold above which employees must be evacuated. If the premises in which your team members work exceed this temperature, they may refuse to work.
This threshold is set at 34 degrees Celsius.
Solutions for thermal comfort
Thermal comfort is essential to ensure that employees can work in good conditions. Conversely, persistent thermal discomfort can be detrimental to their well-being and productivity.
To ensure an ideal temperature in your business premises, you may choose to install an air-conditioning system. However, cooling a commercial area or warehouse is very energy-intensive and, by extension, expensive.
A more economical solution is the cool roof. Perfectly suited to large buildings, the cool roof involves applying a layer of white paint to the roof to counteract the effects of heat. Thanks to this, the sun's rays are reflected, enabling you to reduce the temperature inside.
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