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Unions Urge Bosses To Allow Flexible Working As The Heatwave Continues

Unions Urge Bosses To Allow Flexible Working As The Heatwave Continues

The heatwave has already caused one GP's surgery to close for the day

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

In case you hadn't noticed, it's a bit warm out today as this seemingly unending heatwave continues to beat down on the UK.

The south of the country has seen the highest temperatures this week, with highs of 35C forecast for later this week. Yesterday, the highest temperature of the year so far was recorded in Suffolk, when the mercury rose to a beyond-clammy 33.3C and it looks like there's no reprieve, with London set to hit 33C on Wednesday thanks to the 'Mediterranean Melt'.


As a result, unions are urging bosses to allow staff to work flexible hours, where possible, so they can avoid the rush-hour crush and to relax dress codes and allow shorts and t-shirts in offices.

The Trades Union Congress is also campaigning for the government to bring in a law, which would set a new maximum indoor temperature of 27C for workers in strenuous jobs, the Daily Mail reports.

However, one GP surgery in Margate, Kent, did close its doors early after it was recorded to be 31C degrees inside, the Mail reports. A spokesperson from Garlinge GP Surgery said the sky-rocketing temps meant that it was 'unacceptable for patients and staff', which sounds fair enough.


via GIPHY

TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady told the paper: "It's no fun working in a baking office or factory and employers should do all they can to take the temperature down.

"The most simple way for staff to keep cool inside when it's scorching outside is being able to work in more casual clothing. While shorts and vest tops may not be appropriate for all, nobody should be made to wilt in the heat for the sake of keeping up appearances.

"Bosses who provide a cool and comfortable work environment are going to get more out of their staff. Workers who are unable to dress down in more appropriate summer clothing, or who work in offices without air-conditioning, fans or a plentiful supply of cool drinking water, are going to feel lethargic, and lack inspiration and creativity."

PA

Staff at London Underground have jumped on board with the idea, begging their bosses to allow them to wear shorts during the current hot spell as temperatures on the tube are 'pushing 40C' according toTubeworker Bulletin.

Commuters also had a rough deal with dozens taking to Twitter to complain that they felt as though they were going to faint due to the heat.

Ah, don't you just love the summer, eh?

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Weather, UK News, heatwave