We are about the enter an unprecedented fifth heatwave of the year, following four heatwaves last year. It is clear to all that the world is warming up and Europe is being hit particularly hard with temperatures 3 degrees above pre-industrial levels.
Continuing to burn fossil fuels means temperatures will increase, the droughts will get worse, disruptions in food production will worsen and so too will the fires and floods. This is why it is referred to as a climate emergency.
2026 is UNISON’s year of green activity and whilst we campaign for governments to act quicker to a greener – carbon free future, we must also ensure our employers keep us safe at work.
UNISON is joining the TUC campaign for a maximum workplace temperature. Click here to write to your MP for such legislation Turning up the heat on the government | UNISON – the public service union
Unfortunately, our newly Reform UK lead Council has voted against a motion to keep Sandwell Council staff safe and call upon the government to introduce legislation for a maximum workplace temperature.
See the council motion here max temperature motion to full council
In Sandwell, UNISON has initiated a joint union petition calling for all council vehicles to have air conditioning to avoid staff working in 40degrees+ temperatures. See the petition here Joint_Trade_Union_petition re air conditioning