Barnet Bus Drivers Face Extreme Heat

Bus drivers operating routes in Barnet and across the capital are raising serious concerns about extreme heat within their cabs, with temperatures reportedly reaching 40C. These conditions, described as being like a 'greenhouse', are leading to driver fatigue and impacting their ability to focus on the road, posing a risk to passengers and the public. Drivers are calling for urgent improvements to working conditions, including reliable air conditioning systems.

Faulty Air Conditioning and Safety Fears

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Unite the union figures suggest that one in six London buses have air conditioning systems that are not functioning correctly. However, many drivers believe the actual number of buses with faulty cooling systems is significantly higher. Some vehicles are equipped with 'air-cooling' systems that merely circulate warm air from outside, offering little relief. This persistent heat can cause drivers to sweat excessively, affecting concentration and increasing stress levels. The difficult conditions can also exacerbate tensions with passengers, potentially leading to confrontations. One driver recounted how his colleague had to take eight months off work after being attacked with a hammer by a fare evader, highlighting broader safety concerns.

Dylan Carroll, who established London Bus Forums to advocate for better driver welfare, stated that a general lack of respect for drivers is being enabled by insufficient action from Transport for London (TfL) and bus operators. He described a recent incident where a bus door lock was missing, compromising security. Drivers are proposing a 'Bill of Rights' to address issues such as faulty air conditioning, inadequate rest periods between shifts, and enhanced protection against anti-social behaviour.

Mayor's Response and Future Actions

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In response to the extreme weather experienced in late June, Mayor Sadiq Khan announced that bus drivers would not face penalties for stopping their services if their bus cab was too hot and the air conditioning was not working. He also confirmed that performance contracts with private bus companies would be suspended in such cases, meaning delays due to drivers taking necessary safety actions would not be penalised. Mr Khan added that 'dodgy buses' with non-opening windows and faulty air conditioning, which were introduced by a previous administration, are no longer being used, and all buses should have functioning air coolants.

Lorna Murphy, TfL's director of buses, affirmed that the organisation takes driver welfare seriously and requires operators to meet high standards. TfL is collaborating on measures to improve working conditions and wellbeing, aiming to ensure fair schedules, safe vehicles, and necessary facilities for staff. Despite these assurances, drivers believe that formal backing for their proposed 'Bill of Rights' is essential for guaranteed, substantial improvements to their working environment.