Survey: High Workplace Heat Impacts Austrian Workers

An ÖGB survey of 2,400 participants reveals that nearly two-thirds of employees suffer from high temperatures at work almost daily.

The Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) survey shows only seven percent of employees work at optimal temperatures. Data indicates that 30 percent work at 33 degrees Celsius or higher, while 11 percent face temperatures exceeding 36 degrees Celsius. These conditions pose significant risks, as performance can drop by 50 percent at 35 degrees Celsius, and accident risks rise by 6 percent at 32.5 degrees Celsius. Currently, 67 percent of companies rely on natural cooling, with 44 percent providing shading and 43 percent offering cold drinks. Only 38 percent provide air-conditioned vehicles or break rooms. In response, 63 percent of workers want heat officers, 56 percent request cooling, and 55 percent seek sun protection films or works council involvement to address the heat.