Record‑breaking heat in June has disrupted workplaces across the United Kingdom and western Europe, raising health risks and threatening productivity.

The heatwave follows a series of high‑temperature events in recent years that have strained energy supplies and increased cooling costs. Temperatures in the high 30s Celsius were recorded in many indoor and outdoor work settings.

Monique Mosley, a worker at a food factory in Yorkshire, said temperatures regularly exceed 30 °C during production of hot filled foods. Her union negotiated additional breaks for employees, but not all employers have adopted similar policies. Construction sites reported increased risks of dehydration and heatstroke, prompting safety inspections. Offices in major cities experienced reduced comfort, and commuters faced delays on public transport. Schools in several regions closed temporarily due to heat concerns.

Economists warned that sustained heat exposure could dampen economic growth by lowering worker output and increasing absenteeism. Industry groups have recommended measures such as adjusted shift times and improved ventilation, while some experts note that the economic impact may be modest if adaptation efforts are effective.

The long‑term effect on European productivity will depend on how quickly employers implement cooling strategies and on future climate patterns.