The sweltering summer just passed has left a lasting impact on working conditions across the UK, with record-breaking heatwaves causing widespread disruption. For Ellie Chowns, Green Party MP for North Herefordshire, the crisis is far from over – she warns that workplace heat concerns are intensifying, as constituents struggle to cope with extreme temperatures.
Ms Chowns pointed to the devastating effect of the heat on schools in her constituency, where dozens were forced to close due to unbearable conditions. She argued that a critical lack of infrastructure and buildings designed to handle such temperatures underscores the urgent need for adaptation. This push for change is gaining momentum in Parliament, with Ms Chowns publicly backing proposed legislation from fellow Green Party MP Hannah Spencer that would introduce statutory maximum safe workplace temperatures.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Ms Chowns made it clear that the UK's ongoing climate crisis has now become a pressing health concern. She called for a robust legislative response to address this growing issue – one that other nations have already tackled successfully. Citing Spain as an example, she highlighted how they set legal maximum working temperatures at 27C for sedentary roles and 25C for light physical work indoors.
The UK's approach stands in stark contrast, with only guidance on minimum workplace temperatures rather than a statutory maximum. Historically, the focus has been on protecting workers from cold conditions – but Ms Chowns believes it is time to adapt to the changing climate. She advocates for an immediate dual approach: reducing emissions to mitigate climate change, and implementing adaptation strategies such as fitting buildings with shading devices or increasing urban tree cover.
Health Minister Sharon Hodgson confirmed that the government is reviewing the matter, acknowledging the unprecedented level of discussion surrounding workplace temperatures. While welcoming this development, Ms Chowns stressed that the UK must confront the reality of a changing climate – where hotter and wetter extremes are set to become more frequent and severe. She points to cities like Barcelona as examples of how urban planning can help mitigate the effects of extreme heat.