The topic of working outdoors during high summer temperatures and employer obligations in Serbia and some European countries covers recommendations and legal regulations that mandate work organization, employee training, provision of protective equipment, and measures to prevent health issues. Special emphasis is placed on reducing exposure to direct sunlight between 11 am and 4 pm, as well as the employer’s obligation to provide sufficient water, rest areas, and first aid. In Germany, additional measures are being considered, such as reducing working hours during extreme heat, additional breaks, and the right to work from home, which is a left-wing initiative. Inspection oversight and fines for non-compliance further emphasize the importance of protecting outdoor workers during heatwaves.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the need for stronger worker protections during extreme heat, advocating for reduced working hours, mandatory breaks, and the right to work from home. They highlight the health risks posed by high temperatures and support government intervention to enforce stricter regulations and provide free protective resources like sunscreen dispensers.
Center: Center-leaning sources focus on the existing legal framework and practical guidelines for employers to ensure worker safety during high temperatures. They stress the importance of compliance with safety regulations, risk assessments, and the provision of protective equipment and rest areas. The approach is balanced, emphasizing both worker safety and employer responsibilities.
Right: Right-leaning sources tend to emphasize the responsibilities of employers to comply with existing laws without advocating for additional restrictions. They focus on the importance of maintaining productivity while ensuring basic safety measures are met. There is less emphasis on expanding worker rights or government intervention beyond current regulations.
