Those who work outdoors are to be better protected from heat starting in 2026. This is made possible by the heat protection regulation, which will be reviewed on Wednesday. In the National Council, SPÖ Social Minister Korinna Schumann described the step as a "milestone". Employers will have to implement a heat protection plan when GeoSphere Austria issues a heat warning of at least level two (30 to 34 degrees).

Heat Protection Regulation to Come into Effect in 2026

The heat protection regulation is set to come into effect on January 1, 2026. It includes a mandatory provision for cooling or air conditioning in crane cabins and self-driving work equipment - after all, temperatures of 50 degrees have been measured in a crane cabin, said Schumann. There will be transition periods for the retrofitting. The heat protection plan must be accessible to all employees at workplaces, construction sites, and external work locations.

The focus is on hazard prevention, said Schumann. This includes measures such as shifting working hours or reducing the intensity of work. If this is only possible to a limited extent, technical and organizational measures such as shading the workplace or relocating the activity to the shade must be taken. If this is also only possible to a limited extent, personal measures such as light clothing, head protection, or sunscreen are needed.

Heat Protection Regulation to Bring More Clarity

Workplaces indoors are already protected by the workplace regulation, said Schumann, but there has been no protection regulation for those outdoors until now. The heat protection regulation is also intended to provide more clarity for employers, who often did not know how to act during a heatwave. Additionally, it makes it easier for labor inspection to identify deficiencies.

(APA/Red)

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