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What is the Optimum Workplace Room Temperature?

May 28th, 2016 by Airedale Cooling

As we fast approach the summer months, there’s no better time than now to check the optimum temperature for your workplace in preparation for the hotter weather. When choosing the most suitable indoor temperature for your building, there are several factors you must take into consideration, including:

  • What type of room it is
  • The purpose of the room
  • What time of year it is


Incorrect temperature levels can affect the welfare and productivity of your staff; if the temperature is too hot, there is an increased risk of dizziness, fainting and headaches. Alternatively, lower levels of heat can cause employees to lose concentration and feel tired. This article will serve to explain what the optimum temperature in your workplace should be and how this can be achieved, to ensure staff feel comfortable and motivated during their working day.

What affects the optimum room temperature?

According to HSE, whilst there is no legal requirement for minimum or maximum indoor temperatures, the workplace temperature should be at least 16°C, or 13°C for laborious work. In addition to air temperature, there are several other factors which must be carefully considered when deciding on the optimum indoor temperature, including:

  • Radiant temperature
  • Humidity
  • Air velocity

The maximum temperature of a room can vary depending on its purpose; whilst offices and shops typically have lower temperature levels, the working environment in factories, bakeries, glass works and server rooms causes there to be high air temperatures and humidity levels.

How can a ‘reasonable’ working temperature be achieved?

According to official regulations, employers must maintain a ‘reasonable’ temperature in their workplace at all times. However, choosing a reasonable working temperature can be a subjective decision which differs from person to person. As such, you must carefully consider the type of work carried out in your workplace and the overall environmental conditions in the space to achieve a reasonable indoor temperature. To do so, a thermal comfort risk assessment in the form of a detailed checklist will establish whether your employees are satisfied with the thermal environment they are working in. This checklist will take into account:

  • Air temperature
  • Radiant temperature
  • Humidity
  • Air movement
  • Metabolic rate
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Personal opinion of your employees

Can the season affect optimum indoor temperatures?

In an office environment, the general rule of thumb is that the temperature should be between 21-23°C (69-73°F), and the optimum relative humidity levels should be between 40%-65%. During the summer months when the external temperatures will be higher, air-conditioned offices should be slightly warmer to minimise the fluctuation in external and internal temperatures.

Airedale Cooling

With over 30 years’ industry experience, here at Airedale Cooling we offer a wide range of air conditioning solutions, so you can reach the optimum temperature in your workplace. Operating throughout Bradford, Harrogate, York, Halifax and all of North and West Yorkshire, we can find the ideal piece of technology to suit the unique features of your building. All of our products are sourced from leading manufacturers, ensuring high performance and reliable use for many years to come.

To find out more about any of our first rate products or services, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert team today – we are always happy to help with any enquiry.  

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