Bus drivers in the West Midlands have spoken out about the 'horrendous' working conditions during heatwaves, with temperatures reaching 40C in their cabs. The UK experienced three successive heatwaves, including the hottest June day on record at 37C. The Met Office recently warned that climate extremes are becoming the 'new normal' for the UK.
Drivers Describe Unbearable Conditions
Three anonymous National Express drivers, each with over 20 years of experience, said the conditions were 'unbearable' and criticized the lack of adequate air conditioning, threatening safety. One driver stated: 'You're sweating down your back, your face … it’s just been terrible, it’s just been too hot. Some drivers will carry on and you can see that they’re exhausted. They’re not sleeping at night because of the heat and they’re coming to work the next day, expected to maintain massive concentration driving a 12-tonne vehicle.' Another added: 'It’s like you’ve wet yourself. Your shirt is wringing wet. We’ve even had passengers pass out on the bus.'
Political and Union Responses
The persistent heat has renewed focus on transport worker conditions. Green MP Hannah Spencer plans to introduce a bill for a maximum workplace temperature. London Mayor Sadiq Khan pledged support for bus drivers in June. New Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to focus on public transport reform, having brought Manchester buses under local control. Drivers were granted extra 30-minute breaks, but many were unaware and feared pay cuts and service delays.
Unite union general secretary Sharon Graham said bus drivers were left 'sweltering during heatwaves, risking their own health and that of their passengers.' She added: 'We know that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, but this fact seems to take the bus operators by complete surprise every year. Bus firms must stop putting profits before people and act now.' Unite provided drivers with a letter to show employers when conditions are too hot, highlighting their legal right to stop work for safety reasons.
National Express Response
A National Express spokesperson called the weather 'unprecedented' and thanked drivers for 'keeping the region moving.' They stated: 'We recognise that bus driving in extreme heat can be very unpleasant.' All new electric vehicles have air conditioning, but retrofitting older buses was not cost-effective due to the UK's historically mild climate. However, if recent conditions become the norm, this may need review. They added: 'In the meantime, in addition to providing extra breaks and free water, we are very clear that our drivers must take any precautions necessary to stay hydrated and safe.'
