Is it too hot to work? The rules for employers as temperatures soar to nearly 30C

The unusually high temperatures at the moment could mean it is actually too hot for some people to work. 

Met Éireann has a issued a yellow heart alert warning due to very warm and humid weather on Friday.

It forecast daytime temperatures in excess of 27 degrees in many areas away from coasts with night time temperatures not falling below 15 degrees.

The national weather forecaster has warned that possible consequences of this could include heat stress, uncomfortable sleeping conditions and the risk of water related incidents. 

The HSE warns that even two consecutive days of temperatures going over 25 °C can impact health and wellbeing. Mitigating against heat exhaustion or heat strokes is not just a precaution for during heatwaves, but is pertinent for the entire hot season.

It warns that outdoor workers such as people working in construction may be particularly at risk in heatwaves from high outdoor temperatures as well as from UV exposure.

Outdoor workers are exposed to 2-3 times more UV radiation from the sun than people who work indoors, putting you at high risk of skin cancer.

There is no maximum indoor temperature restrictions for workers, but there are minimum levels. 

The Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 states that workplaces must be at least 17.5C. That changes to 16C if rigorous physical work is undertaken.

The act states that employers must ensure the safety of staff.

Under the act employers must "take reasonable care to protect his or her safety, health and welfare and the safety, health and welfare of any other person who may be affected by the employee’s acts or omissions at work".