Regulating workplace temperatures and adapting for climate change is long overdue

Wednesday 20 May 2026

Commenting on the publication of the Climate Change Committee report A Well-Adapted UK today (Wednesday), UNISON assistant general secretary Jon Richards said:

“This recognition of the need to adapt to climate change is a vital step. Increased investment in flood defences, public buildings and cooling systems for key public services are all essential and long overdue.

“Setting maximum temperatures for workplaces is essential.

“Being too hot at work puts people’s health at risk and leads to poorer performance and lower productivity.

“Any decent employer would want their staff to be at their best to do their job effectively. Everyone works better at a comfortable temperature.
 

“Climate change means staff are ever more likely to face fluctuating conditions, and health and safety reps will play an increasingly vital role in making sure workers are safe.

“The report also marks a significant step in recognising public services as critical infrastructure requiring protection and increased funding.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

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