As temperatures rise and the heatwave approaches, employers must be prepared to protect their employees. Under current legislation, temperatures above 37°C or a temperature-humidity index of over 80 define extreme heat conditions. These require clear measures from employers to prevent illness and incidents at work.
First, it is essential that employers ensure optimal microclimate conditions. This means adequate ventilation, reducing the intensity and pace of physical activity, alternating work and rest periods in shaded or cool places. Alternating dynamic and static exertion is also recommended to reduce heat stress on the body.
In addition to these protective measures, employers should also take into account the health of employees. They should provide 2-4 liters of drinking water (preferably mineral water) per shift for each worker, provide personal protective equipment and, where possible, access to showers.
The measures should be agreed with the workers’ representatives or, where they exist, with the SSM committee. The legislation requires that decisions are taken collectively and reflect the reality on the ground.
If the employer cannot guarantee the minimum conditions laid down by law, the following solutions may be adopted with the agreement of the employees:
- reduction of the working day;
- split working hours (before 11:00 and after 17:00);
- temporary work stoppages, while maintaining strictly necessary functionality in those areas where this is necessary.
It is important that employers constantly monitor weather warnings. Code yellow means discomfort, code orange means risks for vulnerable groups and outdoor employees, and code red means general danger, including outdoor activities must be stopped.
Last but not least, employers need to be prepared to provide first aid and to transport affected persons to medical facilities. In some cases, an air-conditioned emergency room equipped with rehydration solutions, water and hot teas may be necessary.
Employees with chronic medical conditions that make working in extreme temperatures inappropriate can request a change of job or reduced hours. And employers have the right – and responsibility – to implement any additional measures to help protect workers.
Failure to comply with these obligations carries penalties of between 1,500 and 2,500 lei. More serious, however, is the real risk to the health of people working in extreme conditions. This is why prevention, communication and compliance are not just legal requirements – they are signs of respect and responsibility towards the team.