Mayor’s Heatwave Support for Bus Drivers

London is experiencing an unprecedented heatwave, with bus temperatures recorded near 34°C. In response, Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has pledged concrete support for the city’s bus drivers, emphasizing that their health and safety must not be compromised by extreme weather.

The mayor’s office confirmed that all driver cabs are equipped with air‑cooling systems, and that TfL is conducting systematic checks to ensure these systems function properly. If a driver finds that their air‑cooling system is defective or that conditions are unsafe, they are now explicitly instructed to contact the controller and stop driving without fear of penalties. This policy reinforces the city’s existing hot‑weather plan and extends a clear, no‑risk safety net for employees on the frontline of public transport.

Union leaders have welcomed the move, noting that last year saw a record level of complaints about bus services. Sharon Graham of Unite described the mayor’s commitment as “totally unacceptable for any bus driver to be put at risk due to high temperatures.” By collaborating directly with TfL and bus operators, the mayor aims to ensure that drivers, passengers, and the broader community benefit from a safer, more reliable network during the sweltering period.

In addition to equipment checks, the mayor encourages drivers to reach out to their employers, unions, or a confidential reporting service if they encounter unsafe conditions. This open line of communication is intended to address concerns promptly and prevent any incidents that could endanger staff or passengers.

While the announcement does not detail new physical infrastructure, the emphasis on rigorous monitoring and empowerment of drivers represents a proactive stance on occupational health. By aligning public safety with environmental challenges, the city demonstrates a commitment to social justice for essential workers and underscores the importance of resilient, climate‑aware urban planning.