A campaign calling for a legal maximum working temperature in the UK has gained more than 20,000 signatures in the past 24 hours, as the country endures its third scorching heatwave this summer. Temperatures are expected to reach around 35°C in the West Midlands on Friday, July 10.
Growing Calls for Change Amid Rising Temperatures
The warming climate and increasing frequency of summer heatwaves have intensified demands for legal changes to ensure safe working conditions. Currently, the UK has a legal minimum indoor working temperature of 16°C (or 13°C for strenuous work), but no legal maximum. Employers can allow temperatures to climb as high as they wish. In contrast, Spain already caps indoor working temperatures at 27°C for desk-based work and 25°C for physical work.
The Health and Safety Executive is reviewing its guidance on workplace temperatures, but campaigners argue that workplace laws must adapt to 21st-century Britain, with summers expected to become even warmer in the coming years.
Petition Started by Worker with Health Conditions
Kerry Cooper from Shrewsbury started the petition after struggling to cope at work during hot weather. She suffers from several health conditions and believes a legal maximum temperature is essential for protecting workers.
Supporters have shared their experiences on the petition. James commented: "In my factory, I'm running a machine set at 195°C, handballing 25kg, walking 20k steps a day, no windows, no aircon, no fans, and we don't even have access to clean drinking water." Ocean added: "I work in a warehouse, it’s like a literal greenhouse in there. The fans are mostly broke, I’m dizzy and feel sick, and my performance is bad because of it and the only advice they give is to drink warm water."
Impact on Workers and Call for Action
The petition has gained traction as temperatures soar, highlighting the dangers of extreme heat in workplaces without adequate cooling measures. Campaigners urge the government to introduce a legal maximum working temperature to protect employees, particularly those in physically demanding roles or with health conditions.
