Greens back call for maximum working temperature
The Scottish Greens have backed calls from trade unions for a maximum working temperature, with the party's finance spokesperson, Ross Greer describing it as "essential in an era of regular heatwaves"
Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer said:
"This is an idea whose time has come. The temperatures we are seeing this week should not be normal, but they are sadly likely to become just that as the effects of the climate emergency are made clear. All employers are required to provide a safe working environment. If they are unwilling to do so, their workers should be protected from extreme heat by the law."
"It shouldn't take government to force employers into protecting their staff though. Organisations should be taking steps now to mitigate the worst effects of the heat, including by seriously considering whether workers need to travel into their office at all, or if their work can either be done from home or paused without any loss of pay."
"The scorching heat we're seeing right now is not a one-off. Unfortunately, as we look to the future, these sweltering conditions are likely to become more common. A maximum working temperature is now clearly essential in an era of regular heatwaves. Our climate is changing. It's time for workers' rights to do the same."