Sweatin' It Out? Left Party Wants to Beat the Heat at Work
The progressive sector aims to extend employment opportunities.
The Left Party, a political group in Germany, is calling for a revolution in workplace heat protection due to the escalating climate crisis. According to their action paper (as reported by the German Editorial Network – RND), they're advocating for a reduction in work hours when the temperature hits 26 degrees Celsius in the office or out on the street.
Jan van Aken, co-chair of the Left Party, is adamant that the unbearable heat is more than just an environmental issue—it's a health crisis for workers. In his view, it's impossible to maintain focus and productivity in an overheated office or out in the sun. Heat stress can lead to a myriad of health problems, from exhaustion to heat stroke.
Starting from July 2025, van Aken is urging the federal government to take immediate action. The Workplace Ordinance needs to be tightened, requiring employers to provide additional breaks, water, sun protection, remote work options, and even reduce full-time work by 25% for temperatures above 26 degrees. For temperatures hovering around 30 degrees, work hours should be slashed in half, with breaks every half-hour, and fans should be set up at the workplace. To take it a step further, van Aken suggests installing sunscreen dispensers at stations and increasing the number of water dispensers in cities.
Union and AfD Thumbs Down, Greens On Board
The Union and Alternative for Germany (AfD) have both rejected the plan, citing existing work safety regulations and economic feasibility concerns. The Union's Marc Biadacz points out that Germany already has a robust system in place, and the Left's initiative is unrealistic and financially unsustainable for many industries. On the other hand, the Greens, while not openly endorsing the entire proposal, support the idea of adaptable working time regulations based on the specific demands of each job.
Beat the Heat: Key Facts and Recommendations
Currently, a tolerable indoor temperature according to technical guidelines is up to 26 degrees Celsius. For temperatures above 30 degrees, employers are expected to take action based on recommendations, such as installing sun shields, providing drinks, and regular breaks.
However, it's crucial to remember that not all workers can readily refer to the indoor temperature. For outdoor workers like construction laborers or garbage collectors, there are separate regulations in place to protect them from heat and sun exposure, such as the provision of protective equipment and adequate drinking water.
Sources: ntv.de, mau/AFP
Health
- Contends with heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses
- Requires rest breaks to maintain productivity and health
Labor Law
- Imposes responsibility on employers to ensure a safe work environment
- Determines breaks, work hours, and cooling measures
The Left
- Advocates for heat protection to combat the impacts of climate change
- Proposes workplace ordinance changes and public health measures
Key Figures
- Jan van Aken, co-chair, The Left Party
- Marc Biadacz, spokesman, labor and social policy, Union
- Martin Sichert, health policy spokesman, AfD
- Andreas Audretsch, deputy chairman, Green faction
Enrichment Data:
The Left Party's heat protection initiative includes proposals for:
- Reduced Working Hours: When workplace temperatures exceed 26°C, working hours should be reduced by 25%. If temperatures reach 30°C, working hours should be halved[1][2].
- Mandatory Breaks: Regardless of the temperature level, employees should receive regular breaks. For temperatures above 30°C, breaks should be every half hour, while for temperatures between 26°C and 30°C, breaks should occur every hour[1][2].
- Workplace Equipment: Employers are expected to provide water, fans, and potentially other cooling measures to maintain a comfortable work environment[1][2].
- Remote Work Option: During heatwaves, employees should have the option to work from home if possible, to avoid the need for commuting or working in hot environments[2].
Additionally, the Left Party suggests broader public measures, such as installing free sunscreen dispensers and water fountains in public spaces to help mitigate the effects of heatwaves[1][2].
- The Left Party, in response to the climate crisis, proposes a revised employment policy focusing on workplace heat protection, advocating for a reduction in work hours when office or outdoor temperatures reach 26 degrees Celsius, as part of their action paper on science, health-and-wellness, and general news.
- As the head of the Left Party, Jan van Aken emphasizes the health implications of excessive heat at work, claiming that it not only affects productivity but also poses potential health risks such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- In line with the Left Party's proposals, the Greens support adaptable working time regulations based on job-specific demands, while the Union and Alternative for Germany reject the plan citing existing work safety regulations and economic feasibility concerns.
