According to new research, a high number of menopausal women feel that they’re feeling either too hot or too cold when in the workplace, making their struggles with menopause temperature regulation more challenging.
This is according to UK thermal clothing specialist, Heat Holders, who during its research for a new ‘Menopause Wellbeing Guide’, asked its 30,000-strong mailing list to share their views on what experiences they’re having with temperature regulation at work.
After segmenting the data menopausal respondents, the results suggest 72% are struggling with temperature regulation at work. In addition, around 70% of these respondents feel they’re unable to adjust the thermostat in the workplace.
This is also noteworthy for employers as according to the HSE’s ‘Approved Code of Practice on the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations’, the “minimum temperature for working indoors should normally be at least 16°C or 13°C if much of the work involves rigorous physical effort”. And while there “is no maximum temperature for workplaces” heat is classed as “a hazard” and has the same legal obligations in place as any other hazard.
Heat Holders’ guide also cites various medical professionals and recognised sources. One of the expert contributors was Deborah Garlick, the CEO and Founder at Henpicked, one of the UK’s largest communities for women over 40 who provide specialist advice on menopause, who commented:
“When people understand what’s happening during menopause — why temperature changes occur, how symptoms can vary, and that it’s not simply “feeling hot” — they’re more likely to respond with empathy and support rather than frustration.
“Open discussions, awareness sessions, and visible commitment from leaders all help normalise the topic and remove embarrassment. This makes it easier to have conversations about reasonable adjustments — whether that’s seating location, flexible dress codes, or simply agreeing how to manage the thermostat without awkwardness.”
Shane Doughty, Director of Heat Holders offered these comments:
“The results from our survey were certainly eye-opening with it highlighting the more serious issue that many women aren’t feeling comfortable temperature-wise in the workplace. Hopefully, our guide can highlight this to employers and help boost awareness of these difficulties.
“However, as our expert contributors have said, communication can be the key here. Breaking down these barriers with open and honest discussions can help women to feel more comfortable to address temperature issues when they’re at work.”