Construction labor union calls for site-wide halt due to excessive heat during construction work
As Germany braces for a prolonged heatwave, the IG Bau union is urging construction companies to implement heat protection measures and advocating for a seasonal short-time work allowance to be applied throughout the year.
The upcoming week is set to be sunny, dry, and very hot, with highs reaching up to 32 degrees. However, the RTL/ntv weather team predicts that under the influence of high "Julia," temperatures could soar even higher, with some regions experiencing highs of 38 degrees. In response, the union's vice-president, Carsten Burkhardt, has stated that outdoor work should stop when the thermometer climbs above 33 degrees.
Heat protection is considered a basic right by the union, and IG Bau's recent guidelines emphasize protecting workers from extreme heat. Measures include scheduling strenuous tasks for cooler hours, ensuring regular breaks with shade and hydration, and providing sufficient water and rest areas. The union also calls for employers to adapt work conditions proactively during heatwaves to reduce health risks to workers outdoors.
In light of the increasing frequency of heatwaves, IG Bau strongly advises construction companies to implement additional heat protection measures. These include adjusting working hours to avoid peak heat times, guaranteeing frequent breaks in shaded or cooled locations, and supplying ample drinking water on-site. The union also encourages educating workers about heat illness symptoms and prevention.
While specific 2025 heatwave guidelines from IG Bau were not found in the search results, the recommendations align closely with the union's established heat protection campaigns. These measures are standard practices promoted in Germany during recent heatwaves to protect outdoor laborers.
The union has renewed its proposal for a climate short-time work allowance, which would provide financial support to workers who cannot perform their duties due to extreme weather events, not just heatwaves. This benefit, also known as the "bad weather allowance" in winter when work cannot be done due to frost, snow, or ice, would be entitled from the employment agency, which amounts to at least 60 percent of net wages.
Over the weekend, high-pressure weather with highs up to 33 degrees is expected, except in the south where there is a risk of severe weather with heavy showers. Light wind is expected throughout the forecasted period. Saharan dust could make the sky appear partly milky in the coming days.
On Thursday, a convergence zone could bring local showers and thunderstorms, but most places will remain dry. High heat load is expected on Thursday with highs of 26 to 37 degrees. Temperatures will remain high on Friday with a mix of sun and clouds, and showers and thunderstorms possible in the south.
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