London buses without functioning air conditioning: your rights

The Commissioner has made it explicitly clear that drivers are within their legal rights under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – specifically Section 44 – to cease work and remove themselves from a situation which poses a serious and imminent danger to their health and safety. In this case, that includes operating a vehicle without a working air conditioning system during hot weather.

Andy Lord advised that: if a bus does not have working air conditioning on a hot day, the driver should contact the iBus Controller immediately and advise that the vehicle is not fit to remain in service.

If the issue is identified before going into service—for example, during pre-service checks at the garage—you should inform your manager that you cannot take the vehicle out as it is not safe or suitable for service under current weather conditions.

You should request a replacement bus that has fully functioning air conditioning.

Importantly, the Commissioner has also made clear that bus companies will not be penalised for lost mileage where such issues are raised, meaning there is no justification for managers or operators to penalise individual drivers for prioritising their health and safety.

Let’s be absolutely clear:

• You are not refusing to work—you are exercising your legal right to refuse unsafe work.
• You are not asking for special treatment—you are demanding a safe working environment, as is your right.
• If the company won’t be sanctioned, then neither should you.

GMB will stand behind any member who follows this clear guidance. We urge all reps and members to support each other, record any incidents where pressure or intimidation is applied, and notify your GMB branch immediately if you experience pushback for taking this stand.

This is about dignity at work, safe conditions, and respect for the job you do. No driver should be made to suffer in unsafe heat. You deserve better—and GMB is here to make sure you get it.