Excess heat and Climate Change pose serious Health hazards to Labor force – UN

As the planet continues to grapple with the escalating impacts of climate change, one of the most immediate and severe consequences is the rising threat to the health and safety of workers exposed to increasing temperatures. From construction sites in the sun-scorched Middle East to farmlands in the humid heartlands of America, the burgeoning heat levels are proving to be more than just a discomfort; they are a significant hazard.

Recent studies and reports from UN’s Labor Organization highlight a grim forecast: workers around the world are increasingly at risk of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, and even fatal conditions if current warming trends continue. These conditions not only threaten lives but also impact productivity and the global economy.

Health Risks Amplified

The human body is capable of managing heat through sweating and increased blood flow, but these mechanisms have their limits. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can overwhelm these systems, leading to severe health complications. “When the ambient temperature rises above 35°C (95°F), the body struggles to dissipate heat, increasing the risk of overheating,” explains Dr. Angela Mathee, a Johannesburg-based environmental health expert.

This risk is compounded in regions where high humidity levels prevent efficient evaporation of sweat, the body’s primary cooling mechanism. Workers in tropical climates are particularly vulnerable, as are those in areas where sudden heatwaves strike unexpectedly, leaving little time for acclimatization.

The economic implications are also stark. According to a report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), rising temperatures could result in global economic losses exceeding $2,400 billion by 2030 due to reduced productivity. Industries such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing are expected to bear the brunt of these losses, given their reliance on outdoor and heat-exposed environments.

Socially, the impacts are unevenly distributed, often hitting hardest among the poorest and least protected workers. Migrant workers and those in informal sectors frequently find themselves without adequate health safeguards or the ability to take necessary breaks, exacerbating their vulnerability.

As climate change continues to redefine global weather patterns, the need for immediate and sustained action to protect vulnerable workers becomes ever more urgent. It is a collective challenge that demands a collective response, ensuring that as the planet warms, its workforce isn’t left out in the heat.

AMN | Anochie’s Report | Climate.