The UK’s independent climate adviser has recommended the introduction of maximum workplace temperature rules as the country faces more frequent and intense heatwaves. The Climate Change Committee (CCC) warns that extreme heat is now one of the greatest climate-related risks to public health, productivity, and infrastructure, and that the UK must adapt quickly to a climate “that no longer exists today.”
The recommendation comes as businesses across the UK continue to experience the operational impact of rising temperatures, from employee wellbeing concerns to increased cooling costs and higher demand for air conditioning systems.
Although the CCC does not suggest a maximum temperature for workplaces, it does point to Spain, where the maximum legal working temperature indoors is 27C for sedentary work and 25C for light physical work.
This comes at the same time as the Met Office publishes its State of Climate 2025 report, which recorded 2025 as the UK’s warmest year on record. With extreme weather only expected to become more common, addressing the impact of rising temperatures on workers will be a vital part of many organisations’ future business plans.
The Growing Challenge of Extreme Heat
According to the CCC, more than 90% of existing homes could overheat during severe heatwaves by the middle of the century, while workplaces, schools, and hospitals face increasing pressure to provide safe indoor environments. The committee suggests that workplace temperature limits could encourage organisations to invest in cooling technologies and improve resilience to future climate risks.
The report highlights how higher temperatures can lead to reduced productivity, increased mistakes, and a greater likelihood of workplace accidents. As heatwaves become more common, organisations must consider whether their buildings, systems, and operational processes are equipped to cope with prolonged periods of extreme heat.
These concerns align with recent statistics which revealed a 320% increase in UK demand for air conditioning during recent heatwaves, demonstrating how rapidly cooling requirements can escalate during periods of extreme weather.
Climate Resilience is Becoming a Business Priority
The CCC’s warning reinforces a broader trend already impacting UK organisations. Climate volatility is no longer a future concern; it is creating immediate operational, financial, and compliance challenges.
From heatwaves and droughts to flooding events and energy supply pressures, businesses are increasingly exposed to climate-related disruption. Organisations that take a proactive approach to building resilience may be better positioned to protect operations, employees, and assets as weather extremes become more frequent.
Why Air Conditioning Performance Matters
As organisations invest in cooling technologies, ensuring that systems operate efficiently becomes increasingly important. Poorly maintained air conditioning can lead to unnecessary energy consumption, increased costs, and reduced system effectiveness during periods of peak demand.
This is where a TM44 inspection can provide significant value. TM44 assessments evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of air conditioning systems, helping organisations identify opportunities to reduce energy waste and improve performance.
For organisations operating larger air conditioning systems, compliance with air conditioning TM44 regulations is not only a legal requirement but also an opportunity to improve operational efficiency and support wider net-zero objectives.
Many organisations use the TM44 register to confirm compliance status and inspection history, while regular TM44 surveys can help identify potential issues before they impact building occupants or business operations.
If maximum workplace temperature regulations are introduced, the efficiency of an organisation’s air conditioning system could play a crucial role in maintaining safe and productive working conditions.
Preparing for a Warmer Future
The CCC estimates that adapting the UK to climate change will require significant investment but argues that the costs of inaction will be considerably higher. As government discussions around workplace temperature limits continue, businesses have an opportunity to assess their cooling strategies and ensure they are prepared for future compliance requirements.
Working with an experienced air conditioning consultant can help organisations understand their obligations, assess the condition of existing systems, and identify measures to improve both energy efficiency and employee comfort.
To support organisations with compliance and best practice, read our practical TM44 Compliance Checklist for Air Conditioning Systems.
Written By: Tim Holman – Head of Consultancy, MSc, MEng, CEng, MEI
Tim leads TEAM Energy’s consultancy practice and has extensive experience supporting organisations through ESOS compliance, audits and regulatory review.