New regulations on protecting workers from heat – Decree No. 2025-482 and Regulation of May 27, 2025
New regulations will come into force on July 1, 2025, aimed at increasing worker protection from the risks associated with working in high temperatures. These regulations were introduced by Decree No. 2025-482 of May 27, 2025 , and Regulation (Arrêté) of May 27, 2025 .
Why are new regulations important?
Rising global temperatures and increasingly frequent heatwaves significantly increase the health risks for those working outdoors or in hot indoor environments. Workers are exposed to:
heatstroke,
dehydration,
impaired ability to concentrate,
accidents at work caused by thermal fatigue.
The new regulations aim to effectively minimize these risks and ensure appropriate working conditions.
What do the new regulations contain?
1. Obligation to assess heat-related risks
Employers must carry out a detailed risk assessment of exposure to high temperatures for both outdoor and indoor work. This assessment should include:
the nature of the work and the duration of exposure to heat,
environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, solar radiation),
individual risk factors (age, health condition of the employee).
2. Introduction of preventive measures
Based on the risk assessment, the employer is required to implement measures to limit exposure, such as:
providing sufficient drinking water and ensuring regular breaks in the shade or in a cool place,
adjusting work organization, e.g. changing working hours to the cooler parts of the day,
use of appropriate protective clothing and cooling agents,
training employees and informing them about the risks associated with heat.
3. Monitoring conditions and responding
Workplaces should have procedures in place to monitor temperature and humidity, as well as alarm systems or signals to warn of dangerous heat levels.
Who does the regulation apply to?
The new regulations apply to all employers , regardless of sector or company size, who employ workers exposed to high temperatures. Companies in industries such as:
construction,
agriculture,
heavy industry,
transport,
logistics,
catering and hotel industry (employees in kitchens and rooms without air conditioning).
Sanctions for failure to comply with the new regulations
Failure to comply with the requirements of Decree No. 2025-482 and the regulation may result in:
financial penalties imposed by the labor inspectorate,
the risk of civil and criminal liability in the event of accidents or employee health problems,
decreased productivity and increased sickness absence.
Practical tips for employers
Conduct a risk assessment now to be prepared from July 1st.
Provide employees with access to drinking water and cool rooms .
Organize training and information campaigns on how to recognize the symptoms of heat stroke.
Adjust your work schedule, for example by introducing breaks or changing working hours.
Monitor climatic conditions at workplaces – use thermometers and hygrometers.
Check that your health and safety procedures address heat risks and update them as necessary.
Summary
The introduction of Decree No. 2025-482 and the Regulation of May 27, 2025, is an important step in protecting the health of workers exposed to high temperatures. It's worth starting preparations today to not only meet legal requirements but, above all, ensure the safety and comfort of your team.
If you'd like, we can help you with risk assessments, implementing procedures, and providing occupational health and safety training in line with the new regulations. Contact us!
