Productivity Sinks as Germany's Hottest Day Triggers New Employer Duties

5 degrees Celsius on Saturday – a new national record. A day earlier, Saarbrücken-Burbach had already logged 41.3°C. The German Weather Service has issued fresh extreme-heat warnings for today.

The economic toll is already measurable. According to the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI), productivity falls by about 2% for every degree above 16°C. Once the thermometer breaches 30°C, the loss accelerates to 3% per degree. Across Europe, an estimated 130 million employees are exposed to extreme heat, contributing to roughly 230 workplace fatalities annually.

Clinics and emergency services in North Rhine-Westphalia and Hesse have reported a surge in patients suffering from dehydration, circulatory collapse and heat stroke. In recent days, several deaths and numerous emergency calls have come from nursing homes in those states. Doctors warn that certain medications, such as blood pressure-lowering drugs, can reduce heat tolerance.

Heat-related hazards like these underline why proper risk assessments are critical. Many employers miss gaps in their documentation until an incident occurs. A free toolkit with 41 ready-to-use checklists and templates helps you identify risks and stay compliant. Download the free Risk Assessment Toolkit

What the Workplace Rules Demand

Germany has no legal "heat-free" entitlement; workers who walk off the job unilaterally risk consequences ranging from disciplinary action to dismissal. Instead, the Technical Rules for Workplaces (ASR A3.5) set binding indoor thresholds.

• Up to 26°C: Employers must monitor the indoor climate.
• Above 26°C: Cooling measures must be evaluated.
• At 30°C and beyond: Protective steps become mandatory – providing drinks, installing sun protection or relaxing clothing rules.
• Above 35°C: Without specific provisions such as air showers or heat-protective gear, the room is deemed unsuitable for work.

Pregnant women, nursing mothers, older people and those with chronic illnesses receive extra protection under the Maternity Protection Act and individual risk assessments.

Outdoor Workers Face Tougher Conditions

Since 2025, specific requirements from ASR A5.1 apply to construction workers, roofers, farmers and similar trades. Employers must conduct a risk assessment that accounts for workload, clothing and direct sun exposure.

Roofers report extreme conditions: tiles and tools heat up so intensely that work often stops before midday. Recommended safeguards include shaded rest areas, free drinking water, scheduling during cooler morning hours, and regular breaks every 20 to 30 minutes.

Home-Office Responsibilities Differ

When telework is contractually fixed, the employer shares responsibility for protective standards at the remote workplace. In mobile working arrangements, however, the risk typically lies with the employee.

For UK employers navigating their own health and safety duties, a comprehensive toolkit can make compliance straightforward. Risk assessments, COSHH checklists and policy templates help you meet legal obligations and protect your team. Get the free Health & Safety Toolkit

Calls for EU-Wide Rules

Unions and professional associations are pushing for better preparation. The European Trade Union Confederation (EGB) is seeking a legally binding maximum working temperature across the EU. German representatives are urging technical retrofits – such as air conditioning in public buildings and heat-protection measures in new construction projects.

en | boerse | 69647048 |