Sadiq Khan Backs Maximum Workplace Temperature in UK Heatwaves 2026

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is backing calls for a maximum workplace temperature as pressure grows on the government to protect workers from the impact of repeated heatwaves across the UK. The extreme heat has left people struggling to cope as temperatures in some workplaces climb above 40C, causing thousands of schools to close and hospital and transport systems to break down.

The June heatwave alone killed an estimated 440 people a day in the UK during its three-day peak. The UK has health and safety guidance on minimum workplace temperatures but nothing for maximums, despite rising summer heat caused by the fossil fuel-driven climate crisis.

Why a Maximum Workplace Temperature Is Needed

Trade unions and campaigners have repeatedly called for an indoor work temperature limit, with Unison and the Trades Union Congress demanding a limit of 30C, or 27C for strenuous work. In May, a report from the Climate Change Committee, which advises the government, included a recommendation to set maximum work temperature regulations to address the increasing risks posed to workers' safety and incentivise the deployment of necessary cooling.

Current Workplace Temperature Guidelines vs. Proposed Limits

At the weekend the pressure on the government grew when the Green party MP Hannah Spencer said she planned to introduce a bill in parliament that would pave the way for a workplace heat limit. Now a spokesperson for Khan, one of Labour’s most senior elected officials, has said he backs the idea as extreme heat is “becoming a growing reality” for people in the capital, which has been one of the worst-hit places during this summer’s heatwaves.

Khan's Initiative for Heat Adaptation

Khan has launched an initiative to help the city adapt to increasingly frequent and severe heatwaves. His spokesperson said that although he did not have the power to introduce enforceable maximum temperature rules, he supported the idea. Last week the Guardian reported on the impact of repeated heatwaves on schools, with teachers describing how they had been desperately trying to keep children safe, covering younger pupils in wet paper towels.

Key Takeaways on Maximum Workplace Temperature

• Sadiq Khan supports a legal maximum workplace temperature to protect workers.
• Proposed limits are 30C (27C for strenuous work) backed by unions.
• Heatwaves have caused significant health risks and infrastructure strain in the UK.
• Climate change is driving the need for updated workplace safety regulations.

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