New laws are needed that will allow employees to stop working when temperatures get too high, the Labour Party has said.

Marie Sherlock, Labour's health spokesperson, is seeking the introduction of legally defined temperature cut-offs in workplaces.

The Dublin Central TD said that as summers get warmer, the government needs to protect the health and safety of workers. She also called on employers to have adequate protections for workers and to ensure no worker has to go without pay if a workplace closes early.

Sherlock said: "While temperatures hitting 30C may feel like a novelty in Ireland, the reality for some workers is far from pleasant - and, in some cases, it may be dangerous."

The TD said she was echoing the European Trade Union Confederation's call for a directive to establish a binding maximum working temperature in addition to mandatory heat risk assessments tailored to sector and work intensity.

This would see a temperature limit so that workers would not have to work in conditions where higher levels of heat could cause a risk to their health and safety.

Sherlock also called for employers to be compelled to assess risks based on "temperature, humidity and airflow," saying this would particularly protect workers who are vulnerable due to age, pregnancy or migration status.

Under current legislation, workers are not entitled to pay if their workplace closes due to working temperatures being too high.

The TD went on to say that, in the absence of current legislation, "our appeal is to employers to do the right thing and ensure no worker is out of pocket for workplaces being closed early".

Meanwhile, the HSE is urging people to keep cool this weekend as temperatures are set to exceed 27C. Dr Ina Kelly, consultant in Public Health Medicine for Environment and Health, warned: "In times of high temperatures, health issues can occur, including dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke".

She advised people "to keep yourself and your environment cool throughout the day. Keep air flow circulating through buildings wherever possible. Keep out of the sun, especially during peak temperature hours in the afternoon, and stay hydrated".

The HSE has asked people to be aware that young children and people over 65 are more vulnerable to higher temperatures. It also highlighted that people who work outdoors are vulnerable as well as homeless people.

For staying cool when indoors the HSE is advising people to turn off lights and appliances not in use as they generate heat. Close windows that face the sun during the day and open them at night when temperatures drop.

The HSE has also recommended that people should avoid being outside, if possible, between 11am and 3pm - the hottest part of the day.

The HSE also pointed out that heat exhaustion is only serious if the person cannot cool down after 30 minutes. If someone cannot cool down after 30 minutes they may be suffering with heat stroke and should contact their GP immediately.

Photo: Pictured are people in Stephen's Green enjoying the spring sun as Ireland continues to enjoy a spell of good weather. (Pic: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie)