Heat Strike

30th June 2026

Did you know that there’s no law for maximum working temperature in the UK, and that there’s no guidance surrounding what a reasonable maximum temperature should be for workers?

Whilst good employers will make reasonable adjustments to ensure the wellbeing of their staff, this sadly isn’t the case for broad sections of the working population. And for those with pre-existing health conditions, or who take certain medications such as anti-depressants, they are likely to be exceptionally vulnerable to higher temperatures.

To stand up for the health and rights of workers, the vulnerable and the broader community, the WCCA has joined Heat Strike, a campaign led by trade unions and climate justice groups which aims to protect the population from the impacts of extreme heat. The main aims of Heat Strike are:

1. Set a national maximum working temperature.
2. Establish a heat wave furlough scheme.
3. Make a climate action plan.

We’ll be taking steps towards these aims in various ways – one of which will be working with trade union branches and encouraging them to pass motions, stipulating that employees will only work up to safe temperatures. Stay tuned for more updates in the near future!