More than 1,500 Arriva bus drivers have begun strike action across north London and parts of Essex, with disruption affecting dozens of routes.
London Bus Forums News visited Wood Green bus garage on the first day of the strike to speak directly with drivers and union representatives.
Drivers described problems with faulty or ineffective cab air conditioning and raised concerns about the effect of extreme temperatures on their welfare and ability to work safely.
The video report includes interviews recorded outside the garage and examines the conditions behind the industrial action.
Read the full investigation
An Arriva driver was subsequently recorded being told he had been marked absent after refusing to continue driving a bus when he said the cab temperature had reached 43°C.
Read: Arriva bus driver sent home after refusing to drive bus without air conditioning in 43°C heat
Video summary
This report was filmed outside Arriva’s Wood Green bus garage during strike action by drivers across north London. Drivers discuss extreme temperatures inside bus cabs, problems with air conditioning and their concerns about workplace safety and welfare.
The report also includes a recording involving a driver who refused to continue operating a bus after reporting a cab temperature of 43°C. London Bus Forums News approached Unite and Arriva for responses concerning the issues raised.
Arriva said extreme heat was creating challenges across London’s bus network and that driver welfare remained a priority. It said additional support had been introduced during hot weather, including regular breaks and welfare checks.
