The British Standards Institution (BSI) recently unveiled new guidance to help organizations safeguard workers from the rising health and safety risks related to climate change. Issues like extreme heat, floods, and pollution are increasingly threatening the well-being of billions of workers.
Climate change is changing the way we work. Factors like drought, sea-level rise, and severe weather are either worsening existing health and safety risks or creating new ones altogether. The International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that over 70% of the global workforce—about 2.4 billion people—are exposed to excessive heat each year. This risk spans various sectors, impacting not just outdoor workers but also those in indoor jobs like transport or agriculture.
In response to these evolving challenges, BSI’s new guidance, Occupational health and safety management — Risks arising from climate change and climate action — Guidance for organizations (ISO/PAS 45007: 2026), offers practical advice for organizations. It helps them identify, assess, and manage the health risks posed by climate change and the associated adaptations required in work processes and technologies.
The document includes strategies to prepare for climate-related challenges, like floods or intense weather. It also covers the risks tied to adapting to climate change, such as the introduction of new technologies and changes in infrastructure. The guidance emphasizes opportunities linked to these efforts—improving worker health and productivity while also fostering a sustainable work environment.
Anne Hayes, a director at BSI, emphasizes the urgent need for organizations to respond. “Climate change is a reality that affects workplaces today. Understanding how to manage evolving risks is vital,” she says.
Interestingly, a recent survey found that 63% of workers feel their employers aren’t adequately prepared to handle climate-induced risks. This gap presents an opportunity for organizations to lead the charge in worker safety and well-being in the face of climate challenges.
The new ISO/PAS 45007 can be utilized by organizations of all sizes and types, even those without formal occupational health and safety systems. It encourages proactive, coordinated action to protect workers while promoting sustainable practices. With climate change affecting how we live and work, this guidance could prove critical for the safety and well-being of the modern workforce.
