Rising global temperatures are putting millions of workers at serious risk. The United Nations is sounding the alarm, calling for immediate action to protect these workers from extreme heat that can lead to health problems and economic losses.
According to reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization, outdoor laborers—especially in agriculture, construction, and fisheries—are particularly vulnerable. With heat levels climbing due to climate change, many workers are feeling the effects. New data reveals that for every degree above 20°C, productivity can drop by 2-3%. This is alarming when you consider that over 2.4 billion workers are exposed to high heat levels, which can cause nearly 23 million injuries each year.
The WHO urges tailored action plans for different regions and better training for healthcare professionals. Often, heat stress goes unnoticed or is misdiagnosed, meaning many aren’t getting the help they need.
Rüdiger Krech, a key figure at the WHO, remarked, “No one should have to risk kidney failure or collapse just to earn a living.”
As climate change brings more intense heatwaves, the situation becomes more urgent. Workers in outdoor jobs are facing a significant public health crisis from illnesses like dehydration and heatstroke. This problem is especially pronounced in low-income countries where labor laws are less protective, leaving workers with minimal safety measures. Such risks not only affect individual health but can also disrupt industries like food production and construction, leading to broader economic concerns.
A recent study found that nearly 80% of workers in developing nations feel that heat is affecting their job performance. This alarming statistic highlights the growing urgency for change.
As we confront these challenges, it’s worth noting that past responses to similar crises have often been slow. Global efforts to address occupational health issues require collaboration between governments, organizations, and communities to create robust protections and promote worker safety.
For more details, you can read more from Reuters.
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climate change, environmental justice, public health
