Although Slovakia has suffered a lot of damage due to severe thunderstorms across all regions, last week brought exceptionally high temperatures to Slovakia, with the mercury climbing to nearly 40 degrees Celsius.
The heat wave is also affecting workplaces, especially in agriculture, construction, logistics, warehouses and kitchens. Employers are legally required to provide working conditions that do not endanger employees’ health. This includes access to drinking water, shaded workplaces, air conditioning where possible, and adjustments to working hours.
Production must continue despite the extreme heat, but Martina Németová, spokesperson for the Confederation of Trade Unions, says employees have rights. If the outdoor temperature in the shade exceeds 30 degrees Celsius, employers must take measures to reduce the effects of heat.
Miriam Filová, spokesperson for the Association of Employers’ Unions, stresses that employees cannot simply leave work because of high temperatures. However, if working conditions pose an immediate and serious risk to life or health, the law allows workers to refuse such work.
At the Košice steelmaker U.S. Steel, employees must continue wearing full protective clothing despite the heat. Communications Director Ján Bača says regular staff rotation and breaks in air-conditioned areas are essential.
Agricultural company Sanagro also adjusts working hours, starting early in the morning whenever possible. Company spokesperson Dominika Bandíková says caring for animals and field work cannot stop during heat waves, so the company focuses on work organisation, hydration and suitable working conditions.
Employees who believe their rights are being violated can contact the labour inspectorate or the regional public health office.
Source: STVR
