WHO and WMO warn of impact of extreme heat on workers’ health and productivity
The direct impact of heat on the human body during work activities is a growing concern, particularly in sectors like agriculture, construction, and fishing. The hottest year on record in 2024 saw temperatures exceeding 40°C and even 50°C in some regions.
Productivity and Health Risks
The relationship between temperature and work is clear: for every degree above 20°C, productivity can drop between 2% and 3%. This poses not only health risks like sunstroke and dehydration but also economic challenges on a global scale.
Measures Proposed by WHO and WMO
Specific guidelines proposed by the report include tailored action plans for each sector and region, prioritizing at-risk groups, awareness campaigns, collaboration among stakeholders, and technological innovation to enable safe work conditions. The International Labour Organization estimates that 2.4 billion workers worldwide are exposed to excessive heat, leading to over 22.8 million work-related injuries annually.
Immediate action is crucial to address the universal challenge of extreme heat, as recent heatwaves in Europe have shown. By implementing these measures, lives, health, and economic stability can be protected amidst a changing climate.
