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Bus Drivers Strike Over Sweltering Cabs
24 Aug
Summary
- Bus drivers striking over extreme cab temperatures reaching 40C.
- Union demands effective air conditioning to prevent heat illness.
- Multiple strike dates planned through October, causing disruption.
Thousands of London bus drivers are engaged in strike action due to extreme heat in their cabs. Unite members at Arriva North London report temperatures exceeding 40C, with current cooling systems proving inadequate. They are demanding the installation of more effective air conditioning units to mitigate risks of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and dehydration.
Four days of strikes began on Tuesday, August 25, and continued until Friday, August 28, following the rejection of a proposed deal by union members. Further industrial action is scheduled through late October, with multiple eight-day strike periods planned for September and October. These walkouts will affect drivers from eight garages across North London and may coincide with disruptions on the Piccadilly line.
Arriva has expressed disappointment, stating that a recently rejected agreement addressed all union demands. However, the union insists that the proposed deal did not sufficiently resolve the critical issues of cabin temperatures. Arriva is part of a Transport for London taskforce working on extreme weather improvements.
