France Takes Measures to Protect Construction Workers from Heatwaves

In response to increasing heatwaves, France has implemented measures to ensure the safety and well-being of construction workers. With temperatures soaring, companies have started reducing working hours and taking steps to prevent heat-related incidents.

Reduced Working Hours and Paid Leave

Construction companies are adapting to the challenges posed by extreme heat by implementing limited working hours. In some cases, workers are sent home early while still receiving their full wages for the day. This proactive approach aims to prioritize the health and safety of workers in the face of rising temperatures.

Challenges Faced on Construction Sites

Despite temperatures reaching around 30°C in the shade, construction workers continue to brave the heat while working under the scorching sun. Site supervisors, such as Hugo Pastorello, emphasize the importance of anticipating and preventing heat-related accidents by monitoring the conditions closely.

“It’s a real problem because accidents have already happened, and we are trying to anticipate them,” said Hugo Pastorello. “We have to come to the site during the day and see that it’s too hot to work, and then we have to send the workers home and they’ll still be paid as if they’d worked.”

Impact of Heat on Productivity

Studies have shown that productivity declines significantly as temperatures rise. Above 32°C, productivity at work can decrease by 40%, and at 40°C, it can plummet by 76% throughout the workday. Workers like Diogo Bernardo emphasize the importance of prioritizing worker health and safety in such challenging conditions.

“It’s important to help the health of the worker, of us, of everyone,” said Diogo Bernardo. “I’m young, but maybe there are people older than me and it’s more complicated for them.”

Legal Framework and Employer Obligations

While France’s labor law does not specify a maximum workplace temperature, it requires employers to ensure that workers can perform their duties safely. Employers are expected to provide adequate measures to protect workers from extreme heat, such as rest areas, sufficient drinking water, and prevention of prolonged exposure to scorching conditions.

Last year, the Employment Ministry in France issued reminders about employers’ responsibilities and recommended guidelines for outdoor workers during hot weather to safeguard their well-being and productivity.