Why the Right Temperature at Work Is So Important

Anyone who has ever worked hard in a sweltering warehouse in the height of summer or shivered in a draughty office in winter knows: temperature at work is no minor issue. It has a direct impact on our performance, health and even our safety. We in Western Europe all experienced this firsthand during the recent heatwave. Nevertheless, many companies still give the issue insufficient attention – even though there are clear legal requirements and extensive scientific findings on the ideal working environment. Reason enough for Shoes For Crews to take a closer look at the subject. Below, you will find everything you need to know and how to protect your employees as effectively as possible.

Between heat stress and cold-induced stiffness

Ambient temperature has an enormous influence on our physical and mental performance. High temperatures make us think more slowly – as demonstrated, among other things, by a Harvard Chan School study. Even slight deviations from an individual's comfort temperature can have noticeable effects: Temperatures that are too high lead to difficulty concentrating, more errors and faster fatigue. When we sweat, we lose fluids and electrolytes – making us tired, irritable and, in the worst case, even light-headed.

On the other hand, cold makes us sluggish, tenses the muscles and increases the risk of colds and chronic complaints such as joint problems. This can create genuine hazards, especially in sectors involving substantial physical work – such as logistics, emergency medical services, or beverage and food production. Employees in nurseries, care facilities and retail are also exposed to additional strain when rooms are at the wrong temperature.

What do the regulations say?

In Germany, the Workplaces Ordinance (ArbStättV), together with Technical Rule ASR A3.5 (see section 4, Room temperature), governs which workplace temperatures are permissible and reasonable. It states:

• Light work (e.g. office work): at least 20 °C
• Moderately heavy work (e.g. retail, care work): at least 19 °C
• Heavy physical work (e.g. warehousing, production): at least 12 °C

In summer, the critical range begins at around 26 °C. If the room temperature exceeds this threshold, the employer must take measures, for example through ventilation, shielding from sunlight or flexible working hours.

These requirements are not merely guidelines – they are part of the employer's legal duty of care. Anyone who ignores them risks not only complaints, but also legal consequences.

A practical example

Consider the case of a large kitchen in a residential home for older people. Several challenges come together here: high humidity, hot cooking surfaces, time pressure and physical strain. Without effective ventilation and sufficient air-conditioned areas, the indoor temperature quickly rises above 30 °C. Employees sweat, drink too little, and errors in meal preparation become more frequent. At the same time, the risk of accidents increases – slippery floors, unfocused work and circulatory problems are not uncommon.

In another situation – such as a postal centre in winter – the opposite applies: open gates, long distances and poorly insulated halls lead to freezing fingers and muscle tension. Anyone lifting parcels or operating scanners under these conditions risks long-term physical complaints – and, over time, staff absences as well.

Temperature as a leadership issue

A pleasant indoor climate at work is more than just a hygiene factor – it is an expression of appreciation and professionalism. Employees who feel comfortable not only work more effectively, but also more safely. They make fewer mistakes, are ill less often and stay loyal to the company longer.

Managers and those responsible should therefore not delegate the issue to caretakers or facility management, but actively help shape it. Regular indoor climate measurements, feedback sessions, flexible clothing guidelines or break arrangements can help reduce individual strain – without major costs, but with a major impact.

The often-forgotten factor: work shoes

One aspect that is often overlooked in discussions about temperature at work is feet. More specifically: footwear. Whether it is summer heat or winter cold, the right work shoes make a significant contribution to personal comfort and health.

In summer, breathable, moisture-regulating shoes with good ventilation prevent heat and moisture from building up. This helps prevent skin irritation, sweaty feet and infections. In winter, lined, water-repellent models are needed to keep feet warm without restricting mobility.

But temperature is not the only important factor: Good footwear with slip-resistant soles protects against slips, impacts and overexertion – especially in jobs involving a lot of standing, walking or lifting. In sectors such as healthcare, retail or logistics, ergonomic, safe and weather-appropriate shoes are therefore essential – not only for wearing comfort, but also for workplace safety.

Small change, big difference

Whether in a production hall or care facility, bus driver's cab or cold room – temperature at work is a crucial factor in employee wellbeing and productivity. Employers should leave it neither to chance nor to outdated heating systems. A pleasant room temperature, well-designed clothing concepts and high-quality footwear deliver twice the benefit: healthier, more motivated and more loyal employees.

Ultimately, this is what matters: those who create a good climate – both literally and figuratively – create not only a safer but also a more humane world of work. Would you like to learn more? Here are 7 more tips to protect your team.