Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has issued a stark warning that Britain is not ready for the escalating climate crisis, particularly the rising threat of heatstroke among workers. Speaking ahead of a new report, Burnham highlighted that current workplace regulations and infrastructure are inadequate to cope with extreme heat events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change.
Workers at Risk as Temperatures Soar
Burnham pointed to the summer of 2022, when temperatures exceeded 40°C for the first time in UK history, as a wake-up call. He noted that construction workers, delivery drivers, and other outdoor laborers are particularly vulnerable. "We saw the impact on the NHS and on productivity," he said. "But we haven't seen the systemic change needed to protect people."
The mayor is calling for legally binding maximum workplace temperatures, similar to existing minimum standards. He argues that current guidance, which suggests a 'reasonable' temperature, is too vague and leaves workers exposed. Burnham also emphasized the need for better building design, more green spaces, and improved public health messaging to help communities adapt.
Economic and Health Impacts
According to the report, heat stress costs the UK economy billions each year through lost productivity and healthcare expenses. In 2022 alone, heat-related A&E visits spiked by 30% during the heatwave. Burnham stressed that inaction would only worsen these figures, with projections showing that by 2050, UK summers could regularly see 40°C days.
He also drew attention to the disproportionate impact on low-income workers, who often have less flexibility to avoid peak heat. "This is a justice issue," Burnham stated. "Those who are least responsible for emissions are suffering the most."
Calls for National Strategy
Burnham is urging the government to adopt a national heat resilience strategy, including investing in cooling centers, shading infrastructure, and early warning systems. He praised some local initiatives, like Manchester's tree-planting program, but said a coordinated national effort is essential.
The report, due to be published next week, is expected to recommend that the Health and Safety Executive update its guidelines to include specific heat thresholds. Burnham concluded, "We have the knowledge and the technology to protect people. What we lack is the political will to act before it's too late."
