Workers need protection from excessive heat, in particular those involved in strenuous activity

Responding to the current heatwave, Unite has called on the Stormont executive to introduce upper working temperature limits as a matter of urgency.

The demand is included in Unite’s ‘Workers in the eye of the storm’ campaign for improved health and safety protections for workers during extreme weather. The union points to yesterday's record June temperature as evidence that the issue is now pressing.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “Workers are bearing the brunt of the extreme temperatures. We need immediate action to protect workers from excessive heat.”

Unite is calling for action to be taken when temperatures reach the level of 24 degrees where employers must put in place heat management responses. With an absolute upper limit on working temperature of 30 degrees for all workplaces, and 27 degrees where workers are involved in strenuous activities.

Unite regional secretary Susan Fitzgerald said, “The legislation to protect workers has failed to keep pace with the climate science. In the face of rapid temperature rises, continued inaction from Stormont is unacceptable.”

ENDS…

For further information or to arrange an interview contact Donal O'Cofaigh, Unite campaigns, communications & press (NI), tel. 07810 157926.