The World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have published a new joint report and guidance highlighting the growing global health challenges posed by extreme heat to workers.
As climate change leads to the most frequent and intense thermal waves, many workers who are regularly exposed to dangerous thermal conditions already feel the health effects of rising temperatures, in particular manual workers in areas such as agriculture, construction and fishing. The increase in heat episodes also leads to health problems for vulnerable populations in developing countries, such as children, older adults and low -income populations.
“Thermal stress is already hurting the health and means of living of billions of workers, especially in the most vulnerable communities,” said Dr. Jeremy Farrar, who assistant general manager, health promotion, disease prevention and care. “This new guidance offers practical solutions based on evidence of living protection, reduction of inequality and building more durable labor capabilities in a world of heating.”
The new report and technical guidance, entitled Climate Change and Thermal Suns in the workplace, are based on five decades of research and evidence, stressing that workers’ health and productivity are severely affected by increasing temperatures.
WMO reports that 2024 was the hottest year. Temperatures during 40 ° C and even above 50 ° C are becoming increasingly common, a clear indication that immediate action is needed to tackle the deterioration of the effects of thermal stress on workers worldwide.
Professional thermal stress has become a global social challenge, which is no longer limited to countries close to Ecuador – as noted by the recent thermal wave in Europe. Protecting workers from extreme heat is not just an urgent health but an economic necessity. ”
Ko Barrett, Deputy Secretary General, World Meteorological Organization
Basic findings
Report and guidance describe key issues related to the effects of extreme heat.
- The frequency and intensity of extreme thermal events have increased sharply, increasing the risks to both outdoor and internal workers.
- Employee productivity is reduced by 2-3% for each degree above 20 ° C.
- Health risks include heat, dehydration, kidney malfunction and neurological disorders, which inhibit long -term health and financial safety.
- About half of the world population suffers from adverse effects of high temperatures.
To meet these challenges, the report requires the implementation of professional heat plans, adapted to specific industries and areas and was developed in cooperation with employers, workers, trade unions and experts in public health.
Recommended actions
Guidance determines a clear course for governments, employers and health authorities to mitigate the increasing risks of extreme heat to working populations. Recommended actions include:
- Develop Professional Health Politics With customized designs and tips considering local weather standards, specific jobs and employees’ vulnerabilities.
- Focus on vulnerable populations With particular attention to middle -aged and older workers, people with chronic health conditions and in people with lower physical condition who can be more sensitive to the effects of thermal stress.
- Education and awareness For the first correspondents, health professionals, employers and employees to recognize and treat the thermal stress symptoms, which are often incorrectly diagnosed.
- Involve all interested parties By workers and trade unions to health experts and local authorities in the co-creation of thermal health strategies that are locally relevant and widely supported.
- Design solutions which are not only effective but also practical, affordable and environmentally sustainable, ensuring that policies can be implemented on a scale.
- Hug the innovation By adopting technologies that can help preserve health while maintaining productivity.
- Support for further research and evaluation To enhance the effectiveness of professional health measures and to ensure the maximum protection of workers worldwide.
The report and technical guidance from WMO complement the findings of the recent reports of the International Labor Organization (ILO), which emphasize that over 2.4 billion workers are exposed to excessive heat worldwide, resulting in over 22.85 million professional injuries each year.
“This report represents a critical milestone in our collective response to the growing threat of extreme heat in the world of labor,” said Joaquim Pintado Nunes, head of ILO’s professional safety and health and health environment. “Aligned with ILO’s mandate to promote safe and healthy work environment as a fundamental right, it provides strong guidance based on evidence to help governments, employers and workers to face the scaled risks to change the climate.
Invitation to Action
This guidance serves as a critical resource for policymakers, public health officials and employers to alleviate the scaling impact of thermal stress on workplace. It is in line with the main objectives of UN sustainable development, demanding decisive actions that protect vulnerable workers, reduce poverty and promote sustainable economic growth. Immediate implementation of policies and programs that protect the health and productivity of workers in view of climate change is essential.
In the context of accelerating the climate crisis, this guidance serves as a vital tool to help countries respond decisively, protecting lives, means of living and economies from the increasing threat of extreme heat.
