Without heat – additional worries for employers: a reminder from the PFU.

There is no heating in the office Photo: Getty Images

During the period of martial law and the instability of the functioning of the energy infrastructure, the issue of ensuring adequate working conditions becomes especially important. The absence or limitation of heating in administrative, production and utility rooms directly affects not only comfort, but also the security and well-being of employees. The Pension Fund of Ukraine reminds us of this.

The effect of low temperatures on the well-being of workers Prolonged stay in cold rooms can lead to hypothermia of the body, worsening of chronic ailments, colds, and weakening of immunity. Especially vulnerable are workers who perform work with little motor activity or are at the workplace throughout the working day without the opportunity to warm up.

Low temperature has a negative effect on the functioning of the nervous system: the speed of reaction slows down, the concentration of attention and the ability to make balanced decisions become worse. In industrial settings, this significantly increases the likelihood of errors, injuries and accidents.

Increase in production risks Cold in buildings contributes to the appearance of additional dangerous factors: slippery surfaces due to condensation, use of self-made or inappropriate heating devices, disregard of electrical and fire safety standards. All this constitutes a real threat to the life and health of workers.

Impact on working conditions and labor process Violation of the temperature regime in buildings complicates the normal organization of the work process. Employees are forced to work in conditions that do not meet sanitary and hygienic standards, which adversely affects the quality of work. In such conditions, there is a need to adjust the work schedule, introduce additional breaks for heating or change the work format taking into account the actual working conditions.

In order to reduce the impact of heating shutdowns on work safety, employers should:

• provide employees with warm overalls and personal protective equipment;
• organize places for heating and hot drinks;
• conduct additional briefings on the safe use of heating devices;
• monitor compliance with fire and electrical safety requirements;
• timely inform employees about changes in working conditions.

The lack of heating is not only a temporary inconvenience, but a significant risk factor that affects health, safety and work efficiency. Timely assessment of risks and implementation of organizational and preventive actions allows to minimize negative consequences and preserve the life and health of employees even in difficult circumstances of today.