With heat waves becoming more intense in the U.S., a study from Rutgers Health and the City University of New York reveals troubling effects on older workers. Those particularly at risk include Black, Latino, and low-income individuals, who face a greater chance of work disability due to extreme heat exposure.
This research, published in the journal Generations, looks at how jobs sensitive to heat impact health for adults over 50. The findings show that outdoor jobs, like agriculture and construction, as well as poorly cooled indoor jobs, lead to more reports of health-related work limitations. These roles are often held by men, immigrants, and those with lower income, many of whom already have health issues like obesity or diabetes.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 33% of the civilian workforce has jobs that involve outdoor exposure. Mara Getz Sheftel, the lead author of the study, emphasizes that extreme heat is a significant health concern. “It’s not just an environmental issue but a crucial workforce matter,” she states.
The study also points out that many workers in informal jobs, such as delivery drivers and street vendors, often lack health insurance and aren’t covered by safety regulations for heat exposure. This raises serious questions about the protections in place for vulnerable workers.
Though some states have set regulations on heat exposure, more needs to be done. Proposed rules from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration aim to provide basic safeguards like access to water and rest breaks, but as of now, these rules haven’t been put into effect.
Sheftel warns, “Without thorough protections, we risk neglecting our most at-risk workers.” She advocates for stronger federal and local measures, including better workplace safety practices, enhanced access to health care, and vocational training for those unable to work in heat-exposed jobs anymore.
With the ongoing climate crisis, understanding the impacts of heat on workers is more critical than ever. In 2021, a study found that 47% of workers reported experiencing heat-related stress, highlighting the urgency for action.
It’s clear that a multifaceted approach is needed here. Experts suggest investing in technology to monitor heat conditions in workplaces, so workers are alerted before conditions become too dangerous. Increased awareness and education about heat-related risks can also empower workers to advocate for their own safety.
As climate change continues to escalate, we need to ensure that all workers, especially the most vulnerable, are protected from its adverse health impacts. Implementing robust policies now is essential for safeguarding the health and well-being of our workforce.
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Disability, heat, Agriculture, Health Care, Health Insurance, Research
