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UK heatwaves push workers to seek maximum working temperature limits

Spain and Belgium already set maximum temperatures for different work intensities, with England’s campaign aiming to align rules as conditions exceed 35C in London.

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Extreme heatwaves are making jobs riskier across the UK, with workers in trades and public services describing dangerous working conditions when temperatures surpass 35C in places like north London, according to a report by the Guardian Business.

At the Plimsoll pub in north London, head chef Joshua Swinney said fans only circulate hot air and that kitchen adaptations include trying to add more dishes that do not require ovens or stoves, while noting that preparing the pub’s cheeseburger still means standing at the grill.

The Guardian Business reported that workers including bakers, construction workers, bus drivers, paramedics, and teachers say heatwaves are becoming increasingly dangerous, and a campaign is gathering pace for a maximum working temperature to bring England into line with other European countries.

The outlet cited examples from Spain and Belgium, where maximum working temperatures vary by job intensity, including 27C for sedentary work in Spain and as low as 18C for very heavy physical work in Belgium, with construction worker Kenny Dinsdale warning that dehydration, heat stroke, and even death can result if precautions fail.

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