As temperatures climb and the summer sun beats down, many workers are wondering how their summer heat allowance, or high-temperature allowance, should be paid. Here's a breakdown of some frequently asked questions — and what the rules actually say.

Can companies pay the allowance based on the number of hot days?

No. Under current regulations, companies must pay workers a monthly high-temperature allowance of 300 yuan ($41) from June to September if the job involves outdoor work or indoor work environments where the temperature cannot be brought below 33 C (not including 33 C).

That means the allowance does not depend on whether a specific day is officially "hot" or not. If the job meets these conditions, the company must pay the full monthly amount, not a day-by-day calculation.

Do night shift workers get the heat allowance?

Yes, it doesn't matter whether it's night or day. As long as the working conditions fall under the above-mentioned circumstances, workers on night shifts are equally entitled to the high-temperature allowance.

If a company provides cold drinks, can it skip the allowance?

Not at all. Offering cold beverages at the work site is something companies are required to do during summer months — but it's not a substitute for paying the heat allowance.

In other words, cold drinks and cash allowance are both required, and one cannot replace the other.

Is the high-temperature allowance counted as part of total wages?

Yes. The allowance is considered part of the total wage package. According to Shanghai's regulations issued in 2019, the 300-yuan monthly payment counts toward the employer's overall wage expense and must be included in payroll calculations.

Source: Jiefang Daily