High temperatures must not jeopardise the dignity, health and safety of people

High temperatures should not threaten human dignity, health, or safety, according to reports from human rights organizations. A recent alert issued by the Human Rights Defender has emphasized that extreme heat conditions must not compromise the living conditions of vulnerable groups such as elderly residents, patients in hospitals, and workers. The warning comes amid ongoing concerns over inadequate cooling systems and ventilation in care facilities, particularly older and under-resourced homes for the elderly. The alert was issued on July 30, 2026, following inspections conducted by the Human Rights Defender in several institutions. During these visits, officials measured indoor temperatures and found them consistently above acceptable levels, with some reaching as high as 26 degrees Celsius in psychiatric wards at the University Clinical Center in Maribor. These findings prompted calls for explanations from facility management, highlighting systemic issues in maintaining safe and dignified living environments during heatwaves. The Human Rights Defender has long raised concerns about the impact of high temperatures on institutional settings. Over the years, they have repeatedly urged authorities to ensure proper standards and financial support for maintaining suitable living conditions. Their latest statement underscores that providing adequate living conditions during heatwaves is not a question of comfort, but one of respecting human dignity, fundamental rights, and the right to a healthy environment, particularly for the elderly, sick individuals, persons with disabilities, children, and other vulnerable groups. Special concern arises when individuals are unable to take care of their own living conditions due to health status, age, disability, loss of freedom, or other circumstances. In such cases, the risk of inadequate living conditions is significantly heightened, especially in older and poorly maintained homes for the elderly. The organization stresses that the state’s responsibility includes ensuring that service providers have access to appropriate norms, standards, and financial resources to guarantee suitable living conditions. The Human Rights Defender has also pointed out instances where internal rules regarding climate control were applied too rigidly. For example, air conditioning systems are activated only after specific temperature thresholds are exceeded, often after multiple consecutive days of outdoor temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Such policies, they argue, should not override the duty to provide timely and safe living conditions. They called for continuous monitoring of indoor temperatures and prompt action to address overheating situations. In addition to addressing physical conditions, the Human Rights Defender has highlighted the importance of preserving social interactions among residents, even during summer months. Social isolation can become more pronounced during hot weather, leading to emotional distress and mental health challenges. Therefore, they urge facility managers to maintain regular social contact between residents, reinforcing community bonds and reducing feelings of loneliness. Furthermore, the organization has stressed the need for safe and dignified working conditions for employees, especially those working outdoors. Employers are required to adjust work schedules and procedures based on weather conditions, ensuring that staff are protected from excessive heat exposure while performing their duties. This includes providing adequate rest periods, hydration, and protective equipment where necessary. The Human Rights Defender continues to monitor conditions in public institutions and expects systematic and long-term solutions to prevent recurring issues related to high temperatures. While immediate steps have been taken, including inspections and calls for clarification, the organization remains focused on achieving sustainable improvements in institutional living conditions.