Thermal comfort

The term ‘thermal comfort’ describes a person’s state of mind in terms of whether they feel too hot or too cold.

Workplace temperature and thermal comfort

Are you or your employees feeling uncomfortable with the temperature in the workplace? There’s more to it than just room temperature.

Environmental factors (such as humidity and sources of heat in the workplace) combine with personal factors (such as the clothing you’re wearing and how physically demanding your work is) to influence what is called your ‘thermal comfort’.

This website looks at what we mean by thermal comfort in the workplace and what the law says. It provides guidance for managers to help them conduct a thermal comfort risk assessment, using the ‘Five steps to risk assessment’ approach. It also contains information for workers, and should help them suggest ways of improving thermal comfort in their workplace.

Status of this guidance

The guidance is directed primarily at employers but we are also keen to have the reactions of employees. Health, safety and welfare are best ensured by staff and managers working together to assess and manage risks.

Next: What is Thermal Comfort?