Nearly 2,000 bus drivers in North and East London are balloting for strike action over what they describe as 'unbearable' heatwave conditions in their cabs, potentially causing major disruption to bus services. Drivers claim that many Arriva buses have broken air conditioning or faulty cooling systems, leading to temperatures soaring to 50°C inside cabs on hot days.
Drivers ballot for strike action across 10 garages
After five consecutive days of temperatures in the early to mid-30s Celsius last week, some 1,900 Arriva drivers could walk out across 10 garages in Barking, Clapton, Dartford, Edmonton, Enfield, Grays, Palmers Green, Stamford Hill, Tottenham, and Wood Green. Unite the union alleges that Arriva has failed to act on complaints raised by drivers in recent weeks.
Most Arriva buses are equipped with air-conditioning systems that draw in air from outside and circulate it within the cab. However, Unite claims this has little effect on cooling the cab and says proper air conditioning is needed to ensure long shifts do not become 'unbearable' for drivers.
Union demands better working conditions
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stated: 'Bus drivers have suffered in these scorching temperatures for long enough, and the situation is getting worse. Arriva must stop putting profits before people and invest in much better systems to keep buses cool. Our members there have Unite’s full support in their fight for decent working conditions.'
The ballot will open on July 1 and continue until July 29. Unite has warned that any strike action will lead to severe delays and cancellations.
Safety concerns raised
Unite regional officer Steven Stockwell said: 'Arriva has failed to provide our members with a safe and comfortable working environment during the hot weather. This is putting bus drivers and passengers at risk and our members believe they have no choice but to ballot for industrial action. We recognise that those who use these bus services may be frustrated to hear this news, but this is a serious safety issue. It is on Arriva to create a safer environment, not just for our members but the general public and it must do this immediately or face disruption.'
Arriva responds
A spokesperson for Arriva London said: 'We’re aware that Unite plans to ballot its members about industrial action. We will continue to work with Unite and try our best to find a resolution.'
