Rebecca Speare-Cole

A June heatwave that reached a UK record of 37.7°C resulted in an estimated 24 million lost work hours and a £1.15 billion economic impact, with physically demanding and outdoor workers most affected. Survey data showed widespread health impacts, including sleep disruption, heat-related symptoms and increased workplace accidents. Researchers from the Grantham Research Institute and the CMCC warned that extreme heat is exacerbating labour inequalities and urged the UK Government to improve workplace safety and climate adaptation measures.