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Saturday, August 2, 2025

Heat Wave: A Reinforced Legal Framework in France - SHRM

In recent years, heat waves have become more frequent, and, naturally, this can affect employees at work. Common health issues arising from such heat waves can include exhaustion, headache, fainting, dehydration, and, in some rare cases, even death.

From a French employment law perspective, employers have a general obligation to take any measures necessary to ensure their employees’ health and safety at work at all times. They are also required to adapt these measures, taking into account any significant events and circumstances, which would include heat waves.

General Safety Obligation

To date, the standard recommendation has been to anticipate heat waves. Employers must take preventive measures to protect their workers from the consequences of a heat wave and limit its potentially harmful effects. Preventive measures include:

  • Conducting a risk assessment: Employers must perform an annual risk assessment that includes risks associated with heat waves to prevent the associated harmful effects for employees.
  • Checking work premises: Employers must ensure that the ventilation system of their premises is effective and complies with regulations.
  • Adapting outdoor work environments: Employers must also protect employees working outdoors from climatic conditions by providing shelters, shaded areas, and other accommodations.
  • Placing fresh and clean water at employees’ disposal: The water should be available near their workstations.
  • Informing employees: Employers should explain...


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