The thermometer climbs, and for many employees, working becomes hell. But from this July 1, 2025, a new decree requires employers concrete measures to prevent the effects of heat in the workplace. A direct response to the multiplication of heat waves, which has become more frequent and more violent, which can transform a workstation into a real furnace. Faced with the heat wave which is no longer a simple inconvenience, but a recognized professional risk, the Ministry of Labor has set up a reinforced regulatory framework.
A new decree to supervise the work by hot weather
Published on May 27, 2025, Decree No. 2025-482 now obliges employers to integrate heat episodes in the assessment of professional risks. And the obligations are clear: if a health risk is identified, concrete actions must be implemented.
Among the expected measures:
- Adapt the organization of work : shifted schedules, rest beaches, reduction in pace;
- Change jobs or workplaces : shade, ventilation, insulation;
- Fouring fresh drinking water in sufficient quantity;
- Use suitable equipment to maintain stable body temperature;
- Train and inform employees On the gestures to adopt.
These obligations apply as soon as Météo-France places a department in yellow, orange or red for heat wave. The labor inspectorate is also equipped with widened powers: if the employer does not put in place these measures, it may be put in notice to do so.
What employees must know to protect themselves
Working under 35 ° C or no longer has nothing trivial. The consequences can go far beyond discomfort: migraines, fever, dehydration, or even heat stroke, a medical emergency that can lead to irreversible sequelae or death.
The ministry recalls several simple gestures to adopt:
- Drinking regularly, without waiting for thirst;
- Wear light and clear clothes;
- Cover your head and avoid intense physical efforts during the hottest hours;
- Report any discomfort linked to protective equipment;
- Eat light, avoid alcohol, and adjust your pace of work.
In the event of symptoms (nausea, extreme fatigue, dizziness), the activity must be immediately interrupted and prevent a manager.
What if the employer does not apply the preventive measures?
Despite the obligations, some companies are slow to react. If an employee considers that his employer does not respect his prevention duties, several remedies are possible:
- Contact thelabor inspection to report the situation;
- Alert it CSE or staff representatives (if present in the company);
- In the most serious cases, the employee can assert his right of withdrawalif he believes that his health is threatened.
The government has also activated, a scorching episode, a Towl tag native Info Service : 0 800 06 66 66 (free call, every day from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.).