Sadiq Khan backs calls for maximum workplace temperature in UK
London Mayor Sadiq Khan supports introducing a maximum workplace temperature as repeated heatwaves in the UK put pressure on the government to protect workers from extreme heat.
The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has backed calls for a maximum workplace temperature as the UK faces mounting pressure to protect workers from the impact of repeated heatwaves. Extreme heat has left people struggling, with temperatures in some workplaces exceeding 40°C, forcing thousands of schools to close and straining hospitals and transport systems. The June heatwave alone killed an estimated 440 people per day during its three-day peak.
The UK currently has health and safety guidance on minimum workplace temperatures but no maximum, despite rising summer heat driven by the fossil fuel-fueled climate crisis. Trade unions and campaigners have long called for a limit, with Unison and the Trades Union Congress demanding 30°C, or 27°C for strenuous work.
In May, the Climate Change Committee, which advises the government, recommended setting maximum temperature regulations to address risks to workers' safety and incentivise cooling measures. Pressure grew over the weekend when Green Party MP Hannah Spencer announced plans to introduce a bill in parliament to pave the way for a workplace heat limit.
Khan's spokesperson confirmed his support, noting that extreme heat is becoming a growing reality for Londoners, as the capital has been among the worst-hit areas this summer. Khan has launched an initiative to help the city adapt to more frequent and severe heatwaves, though he lacks the power to enforce maximum temperature rules.
Last week, the Guardian reported on the impact of heatwaves on schools, with teachers using wet paper towels on younger pupils and providing trays of water for older students. Doctors described the disastrous effects on the NHS, including radiotherapy and MRI machines failing, critical IT systems stalling, and cooling units breaking down.
Zoë Garbett, the Green Party mayor of Hackney, said supporting workers and families affected by extreme heat is a matter of social justice and climate adaptation. "The climate crisis does not affect everyone equally, and the recent heatwaves have made that crystal clear," she said. Garbett noted that headteachers often faced a no-win decision: stay open with dangerous heat or close, knowing many children lack better options at home.
A government spokesperson said there are "no plans to introduce a mandatory maximum workplace temperature" but added that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will launch a public consultation on workplace health and safety this year, examining temperature thresholds among other issues.
