The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms over the increasing risk of extreme heat in the workplace, particularly for construction and agricultural workers, due to climate change. In a new report, the WHO and the World Meteorological Organization detailed the expansive threat heatwaves pose to millions of workers' health and productivity, marking the organization's first specific report on heat stress since 1969.
WHO’s Rüdiger Krech stated, “It is not just discomfort. It is a real health risk." He underlined the dangers of prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which can lead to serious conditions such as stroke and dehydration. With the last decade recording the hottest temperatures on record, adaptation to these heatwaves has never been more crucial. For instance, average July temperatures in the Mediterranean reached unprecedented heights, and recent reports indicate that this summer in the UK is poised to be one of the warmest on record.
The implications of rising temperatures extend beyond health; productivity also suffers. The report suggests that for every degree above 20C, there is a 2% decline in productivity. Moreover, statistics indicate that workplace accidents spike alongside rising temperatures. During the recent heatwave in Europe, Swiss data revealed a 7% increase in workplace accidents when temperatures exceeded 30C.
Certain European nations are starting to take action in response to these findings. For example, Italy has enacted emergency measures to protect workers by prohibiting outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day. Similarly, construction activities in Swiss regions were halted during peak heat periods, a decision supported by trade unions advocating for worker safety.
The report also addresses the need for adjustments in schools, as vulnerable populations like the elderly and children are also susceptible to heat-related health issues. In Germany, schools can declare "Hitzefrei" when temperatures reach a certain threshold, although the frequency of such announcements has waned as high temperatures become more common. Suggestions include enhancing cooling systems in school environments to ensure that teaching can continue effectively during heatwaves.
Krech emphasized that addressing these challenges requires collaboration among governments, employers, and local authorities. He mentioned that infrastructure improvements, including ventilation and air conditioning, are crucial but costly. However, ignoring these needs could lead to greater economic losses in productivity due to worker health issues.
Ultimately, the report urges proactive adaptation to climate change-induced heatwaves in workplaces and educational institutions. Krech warns against the short-sightedness of delaying necessary investments, highlighting that the cost of inaction can far exceed the costs of adaptation.
