Italy imposes heat‑related work bans and raises wage subsidies for exposed workers

The Italian social security agency INPS released its 2026 guidelines for ordinary wage integration (CIGO) when workers face excessive heat. The monthly gross cap is set at €1,423.69, and integration applies when workplace temperatures exceed 35 °C or when a public authority orders a stop. The rules cover all sectors, with criteria such as work during the hottest part of the day, physical effort, use of protective equipment, and lack of ventilation. Employers must assess thermal stress in risk documents, and the INAIL‑CNR Worklimate portal provides localized heat‑risk forecasts.

Separately, the Emilia‑Romagna regional government signed an ordinance effective 3 June through 15 September that bans outdoor work from 12:30 to 16:00 in areas classified as high‑risk. The ban covers agriculture, floriculture, construction sites, logistics yards, caves and even bicycle couriers, requiring organizers to factor heat risk into delivery algorithms. Municipalities may issue stricter rules, and violations carry legal penalties.