Lithuanian Labour Inspectorate Issues Heat‑Work Safety Guidelines

The State Labour Inspection Service (VDI) in Lithuania warned that high outdoor and indoor temperatures constitute a serious risk to employee safety and health. Senior inspector Saulius Balčiūnas said employers must reassess work organization during heat waves, ensuring workers are protected from overheating, heat‑stroke and sun‑burn.

VDI specified temperature limits: for non‑physically demanding office work the air temperature should not exceed 28 °C, and for physically demanding tasks the limit is 26 °C. When temperatures rise above 28 °C, workers outdoors must receive special breaks at least every 1.5 hours, with a minimum of 40 minutes of break time in an 8‑hour shift. Employers must provide ventilation or cooling, drinking water, shade, and appropriate lightweight, light‑coloured clothing. The agency highlighted sectors with heightened risk, including construction, road works, agriculture, greenhouses, railways, and manufacturing of glass, ceramics or bricks.

The guidance also stressed that older workers, those with excess weight or hypertension are especially vulnerable. Workers are urged to monitor for symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, nausea or rapid heartbeat and to stop work and seek cooler conditions if they occur.