Photo by Adolfo Félix on Unsplash
Workplace Regulations During Germany’s Heatwave
As Germany faces an intense heatwave with temperatures potentially reaching up to 39 degrees Celsius, employees and employers must be aware of specific workplace regulations surrounding high temperatures. There is no legal entitlement to a day off due to heat (“Hitzefrei”) in Germany, even when temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius. However, once indoor office temperatures reach 26 degrees, employers are advised to take cooling measures, such as ventilating early in the morning, providing fans, relaxing dress codes, or offering cold drinks. At 30 degrees Celsius and above, these measures become mandatory, aiming to maintain a manageable working environment. Despite this, employees cannot simply stop working during heat peaks and leave their posts, even if the temperature reaches 35 degrees or more, as the workplace remains legally active.[Source 1][Source 3][Source 8]
Heat Regulations and Measures in Schools
Schools in Germany face their own challenges during heatwaves. According to the education ministry, schools may decide to give students “Hitzefrei” starting at room temperatures around 27 degrees Celsius. Although there is no uniform rule, this temperature benchmark signals when educational institutions should consider adapting schedules or sending pupils home due to heat. Additionally, schools are encouraged to implement practical heat protection strategies, including sensitizing children and staff to heat risks and providing cooling possibilities. Protecting the health and comfort of both students and educators is a priority during these extreme weather conditions.[Source 2][Source 5]
Implications for Expats and International Residents
Expats, international students, and foreign workers in Germany should understand that unlike some countries, there is no automatic right to miss work or school due to excessive heat. Importantly, employers are required to make workplaces safer and more comfortable as temperatures rise, especially above 30 degrees Celsius. This may include flexible working hours (such as starting earlier in the day), relaxed dress codes, and the availability of cooling equipment or drinks. For those in outdoor jobs, employers must also arrange work conditions to minimize exposure to heat, such as scheduling tasks in shaded areas or during cooler parts of the day. Families with children in schools should monitor local announcements about heat-related school closures or schedule changes to stay informed. Knowing these rules allows expats to plan accordingly, ensuring they comply with German work and school policies during heatwaves.[Source 1][Source 2][Source 8]
For more information on heatwave workplace and school regulations in Germany, readers can consult the original overview published by Tagesschau: Hitzewelle in Deutschland: Regeln am Arbeitsplatz und in der Schule [Source 1].
