Need to know
A petition is calling for the government to establish a legal maximum working temperature as the third heatwave hits the UK
Need to know: UK petition calls for legal maximum working temperature amid third heatwave of the year.
- A petition calling for a legally binding maximum working temperature of 25C has been launched. This week, Britain is facing its third heatwave of the year, shortly after a record-breaking ‘heat dome’ in June.
- Created by Andrew Haddock on the official UK Parliament website, the petition has gained 5,914 signatures as of Thursday, July 9, and closes on December 19, 2026. If it reaches 10,000 signatures, the government will respond, and at 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for parliamentary debate.
- The petition states: “Introduce a legally binding maximum working temperature of 25C for all workplaces, covering both indoor and outdoor jobs.” It argues that current statutory guidance only covers minimum temperatures, leaving workers “vulnerable to extreme heat.”
- The campaign comes as the Met Office is tracking a prolonged period of hot, settled weather that is driving temperatures into the mid-30s across many areas. Amber and yellow heat health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency, with temperatures forecast to reach highs of 35C or 36C.
- Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree said: “Many people will understandably want to know how long the current heatwave is likely to last. While temperatures are expected to ease across southeast England through the weekend and into next week, it won’t be a straightforward end to the warm weather.”
- Currently, UK law requires employers to maintain “reasonable” indoor temperatures but sets no legal maximum limit. The Health and Safety Executive suggests practical measures like providing fresh air, free drinking water, and flexible shifts when heat causes discomfort.
- The petition argues that “reasonable comfort” under the Health and Safety at Work Act is not clear enough, and enforceable limits are needed to protect all workers.
READ THE FULL STORY: Petition for legal maximum working temperature launches with hundreds signing it
