Passed at emergency branch committee meeting on 22/06/26
In response to the extreme amber and red heat warnings in place this week, the University has issued the following policy:
“Please tell your line manager if you have any concerns about working conditions or the temperature in your office. They will then be able to consider alternative options with you such as working from home where appropriate or from a different office space.”
(“Update on Amber extreme heat warning” email, Friday 19th June 2026)
We believe this policy is inadequate and leaves staff at risk.
Complicated health concerns that can arise from extreme heat should not be left to the mercy of individual line managers. The policy also ignores the effect the heat has on the long journeys many staff will face to and from work, before they even get to the office.
The Met Office states that during extreme heat:
“Substantial changes in working practices and daily routines will be required.”
(UK weather warnings – Met Office)
We therefore call on the University’s senior management team to agree on a new policy:
Office attendance should be voluntary for all non-essential staff while extreme heat warnings are in effect. Staff should not need to seek explicit permission from their line manager to stay at home.