Poll reveals where the heat was on

Temperatures might have cooled a little in the UK this week, but with July being the hottest month on record the heat has been rising in the country's kitchens.

Caterer's exclusive survey of kitchen temperatures from Saturday 15 July to Friday 28 July revealed an average temperature of 35ºC.

Our survey of more than 150 operations found that kitchens in Ireland, Wales and South-west England suffered the most, with average temperatures of 51ºC, 48ºC and 47ºC respectively.

The South-east, North-west and Midlands fared marginally better, with the lowest average kitchen temperatures at 39ºC.

Overall, our poll revealed that Saturday 15 July was the worst day to be working, with average kitchen temperatures hitting the mercury at 46ºC, followed by Wednesday 19 and Sunday 23 July at a blistering 45ºC.

The heat wave has prompted the TUC to launch its "cool work" campaign. TUC general secretary Brendan Barber called for a maximum working temperature of 30ºC or 27ºC for those doing strenuous work.

The union also warned that employers who don't protect their workers from the effects of extreme heat risk breaking the law under existing health and safety regulations.

Average kitchen temperatures

• Greater London 43ºC 
• South-east 39ºC 
• South-west 48ºC 
• North-east 44ºC 
• North-west 39ºC 
• Midlands 39°C 
• Scotland 43°C 
• Ireland 51ºC 
• Wales 47ºC

By Emily Manson

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