The World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered a serious warning regarding the growing risks of extreme heat in the workplace, especially targeting workers in industries like construction and agriculture. A recent joint report with the World Meteorological Organization highlights how climate change leads to increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves, leaving millions of workers vulnerable to health impacts due to heat stress.
The report, marking the first major update since 1969, calls for concerted action between governments, employers, and workers to come up with effective adaptation strategies. WHO's Rüdiger Krech emphasized that extended exposure to heat can lead to severe health issues like stroke and dehydration, making it clear this situation is more than mere discomfort.
With predictions stating 2024 will become the hottest year recorded, adaptation is essential. The report reveals concerning statistics: productivity drops 2% with each degree increase above 20°C, and the incidence of workplace accidents rises sharply in extreme heat. For example, during the recent heatwave in Europe, accidents surged 7% when temperatures surpassed 30°C.
Several European countries are implementing measures to protect workers. In Italy, an emergency decree was signed, halting work during the hottest hours. In Switzerland, construction was paused to ensure safety, and unions called for more responsibility from job sites regarding temperature impacts on workers.
The challenge extends beyond workplaces; vulnerable groups including the elderly and children also suffer during heatwaves. The WHO urges schools to adapt teaching conditions, as evidenced by Germany allowing classes to be dismissed during higher temperatures, a practice becoming increasingly necessary.
Ultimately, Krech urges investments into building designs and workplace policies that accommodate rising temperatures. Ignoring this issue could result in larger productivity losses and health implications, a reality that may far outweigh upfront costs. The message is clear: adaptation must be a priority for our safety and productivity as heatwaves become the new norm.
