Unions call for action on heat risk for drivers and passengers on Hucknall and Bulwell trams
Unions are calling for urgent talks and action to mitigate the risk to drivers and passengers on Nottingham’s trams during the current hot weather.
The call comes following reports the driver on one service became illl with heat exhaustion during the sweltering bank holiday temperatures.
Union representatives now want a meeting with tram operators Nottingham Express Transit (NET) to address their concerns, particularly for drivers having to endure unacceptably hot working conditions.
In an email seen by your Dispatch, union officials said they had ‘been made aware’ of a medical emergency onboard a tram where the driver reportedly ‘became dizzy, light-headed, and felt sick’.
The email asked whether the incident ‘was linked in any way to a failure of the air conditioning system within the driver’s cab’? The email also asked whether NET had ‘plans to manage heat-related risks to drivers and operational safety?’
Particular focus is on the Incentro tram units used by NET and whether there are any potential air conditioning concerns with them that could cause issue either with the unit or for the drivers.
The email said: "Are we effectively relying on units cooling down overnight and hoping neither the tram nor the driver fails during next day service?”
Unions have added there is also concern for passengers on the trams as a result of the heat.
Andy Downie, head of operations and safety at NET said: “On Monday, May 25, when the UK experienced unprecedented levels of extreme heat and the hottest May bank holiday on record, we can confirm that one of our tram drivers became unwell while driving.
"This was an isolated incident, and the driver was subsequently assisted by members of our team and transported back to our depot, requiring no further medical attention.
“The health and safety of our passengers and staff is always our priority, and we’ve been taking proactive steps to support people as they work and travel during this recent heatwave.
“We have received an email from the GMB union addressing these topics and we’re always open to meeting to discuss how we can support the ongoing health and safety of everyone who works on and uses our trams.”