WHO And WMO Release Guidance To Protect Workers From Rising Heat Stress Challenges

Extreme heat is increasingly affecting workers' health globally, as highlighted in a new report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). The report underscores the challenges posed by rising temperatures, especially for those in agriculture, construction, and fisheries. Vulnerable groups in developing countries, including children and older adults, are also at risk.

The report emphasises that climate change is causing more frequent and intense heatwaves. This has significant health impacts on workers exposed to dangerous heat conditions. Manual labourers are particularly affected by these rising temperatures. Vulnerable populations in developing regions face increased health risks due to these extreme conditions.

Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO Assistant Director-General for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Care, stated, "Heat stress is already harming the health and livelihoods of billions of workers, especially in the most vulnerable communities." He added that the new guidance provides practical solutions to protect lives and reduce inequality.

The joint report titled "Climate change and workplace heat stress" draws from five decades of research. It highlights how rising temperatures severely impact workers' health and productivity. The WMO noted that 2024 was recorded as the hottest year ever. Daytime temperatures exceeding 40°C or even 50°C are becoming more common.

Ko Barrett, WMO Deputy Secretary-General, remarked on the global challenge of occupational heat stress. "Occupational heat stress has become a global societal challenge," Barrett said. This issue is no longer limited to equatorial regions but affects areas like Europe too.

Need for Immediate Action

The increasing frequency of extreme temperatures signals an urgent need for action to mitigate their effects on workers worldwide. Protecting workers from extreme heat is not only crucial for health but also an economic necessity. Addressing this issue can help build more resilient workforces in a warming world.

This comprehensive guidance aims to offer evidence-based strategies to safeguard workers' health amid escalating climate challenges. By implementing these measures, societies can better cope with the adverse effects of climate change on labour forces globally.

With inputs from WAM