Unions call for maximum UK workplace temperature as heatwave descends

Staff should be given flexible working options and more breaks as heat approaches 40C, say union leaders

Unions are calling for people to get legal protection against high temperatures in UK workplaces, as a heatwave arrives that could cause temperatures to approach 40C on Monday and Tuesday.

The GMB union said the government should set a maximum temperature for workplaces of 25C, meaning employers should offer flexible working and travel arrangements, give staff extra breaks and relax dress codes to allow staff to wear cooler clothes.