Workers worldwide are increasingly at risk from heat stress, especially as climate change brings more severe heatwaves. A recent report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) highlights the urgent need for better protections for employees facing extreme temperatures. This is the first detailed look at heat stress in the workplace since 1969, making it a critical moment for change.
Rüdiger Krech, the WHO’s Director of Environment, Climate and Health, described the findings as a “wake-up call.” He pointed out that being exposed to temperatures over 38°C (100°F) can lead to serious health issues like heat stress, strokes, and kidney failure.
Heatwaves are becoming more common. The last decade has recorded some of the hottest temperatures in history, and 2024 is expected to set even more records. In Europe, temperatures above 40°C (104°F) have become routine, while parts of Africa and the Middle East can see temperatures soar past 50°C (122°F). Just last July, the Mediterranean reached a shocking average temperature of 26.68°C (80°F).
Extreme heat also affects productivity. The report states that for every 1°C increase over 20°C (68°F), productivity drops by 2%. There’s more: accidents at work tend to rise in high heat. For example, Switzerland saw a 7% increase in workplace incidents during the 2023 heatwave when temperatures exceeded 30°C (86°F). Workers struggle to concentrate, and many face sleep issues due to heat stress.
Some European countries are beginning to act. Italy recently passed a law to prevent outdoor work during the hottest hours. In Switzerland, construction was paused in Geneva and Ticino during the 2023 heatwave, a decision applauded by labor representatives.
The report also draws attention to vulnerable groups like the elderly, those with health issues, and young people. It stresses that the need for adaptation goes beyond workplaces to include schools. Historically, schools in Germany could declare “Hitzefrei,” sending kids home when temperatures hit certain levels. However, with heatwaves now being more common, schools are reluctant to frequently disrupt classes.
This year in Switzerland, some schools considered holding classes at swimming pools due to high temperatures over 30°C. However, Dagmar Rösler, head of the Swiss teachers’ association, pointed out that this isn’t feasible, as schools need proper cooling systems and ventilation instead.
Krech believes that collaboration is key to effectively addressing these challenges. He raised questions about school uniforms during heatwaves, suggesting that we need to rethink how we adapt to rising temperatures.
Investing in strategies to handle extreme heat is crucial. Many European governments are prioritizing military spending, raising concerns that climate adaptation initiatives might be overlooked. Krech warns that ignoring this issue could lead to higher long-term costs, such as lost productivity and serious health problems. Proactive investment now could save us from bigger burdens later.
