Last week the International Labour Organization released a new report, “Heat at Work: Implications for Safety and Health,” which warns that more workers are being exposed to heat stress worldwide. The new data reveals that regions previously unaccustomed to extreme heat will face increased risks, while workers in already hot climates will confront ever more dangerous conditions.
Heat stress is an invisible and silent killer that can quickly cause illness, heatstroke or even death. The study underlines that, over time, it can also lead to serious heart, lung and kidney problems for workers. In 2020, 4,200 workers worldwide died due to heatwaves, and 231 million were exposed to extreme heat, marking a 66 per cent increase from 2000. Further, the report emphasises that nine out of ten workers experienced excessive heat outside of heatwaves, and eight in ten heat-related occupational injuries occurred under these conditions.
“This is a human rights issues, a workers’ rights issue, and an economic issue, and middle-income economies are bearing the biggest brunt. We need year-round heat action plans and legislation to protect workers, and stronger global collaboration among experts to harmonize heat stress assessments and interventions at work,” explained Manal Azzi, ILO’s Team Lead for Occupational Safety and Health.
The report has sparked calls from international union groups for action – see below
Following the launch of the ILO report, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has emphasised the vital role of trade unions in combating heat stress and underscored the need for organised labour to protect workers from this climate change-induced danger. The ITUC represents 191 million members of 337 affiliates in 167 countries worldwide.
ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle emphasised, "As climate change intensifies, the role of trade unions in advocating for safe working conditions has never been more critical. Workers must have the right and freedom to organise to ensure their voices are heard, their safety is ensured, and their health is protected. Upholding these fundamental rights is not just a matter of law but a necessity to continue working in a more challenging environment."
The ITUC has called for a commitment by all governments and employers to enhance policies and practices addressing heat stress through social dialogue and collective bargaining. Trade unions must be integral in these discussions to ensure policies dealing with the rapidly growing impact of heat stress on workers are relevant and effective. Sources: ITUC news release. ILO News release Report: Heat at work: Implications for safety and health, More information on the site: Heat