Temperature limits for cold weather working
2 °C
Construction work should not proceed if the air temperature is, or is forecast to fall below, 2°C, unless specific cold weather precautions are rigorously implemented
Construction work should not proceed if the air temperature is, or is forecast to fall below, 2°C, unless specific cold weather precautions are rigorously implemented. Accurate temperature monitoring using a shaded thermometer is essential to inform decisions on when to commence or halt work.
Basis in regulation
BS EN 13670
Read the sourceBS EN 1996-1-1
Read the source
How to check it on site
Check that a shaded thermometer is correctly located and regularly monitored, and that works are paused or protected if temperatures fall below thresholds.
Common failure
Continuing work in low temperatures without adequate protection, or relying on inaccurate temperature readings.
Last updated 23 August 2026. This is our editorial summary of publicly available regulation, not building control approval or a warranty determination.