Energy transition creates new challenges for occupational safety
On the occasion of today's World Day for Safety and Health at Work, the ILO draws attention to the growing challenges posed by the renewable energy sector.
"Green workplaces" create special requirements for occupational health and safety. On the occasion of today's World Day for Safety and Health at Work, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the German Social Accident Insurance Institutions (BGs) and the German Social Accident Insurance Institutions (GHIs) are drawing attention to this.
The new job profiles give rise to new risks. For example, a rescue concept for accident victims in offshore wind farms has yet to be developed.
Health protection when handling solar cells is also a new challenge: Novel hazardous substances such as cadmium telluride are being used more and more. In total, a photovoltaic system contains around 15 hazardous substances. This is not only an issue during manufacture, installation and recycling, but must also be taken into account in the event of a fire, for example: Firefighters need special protection if there is a solar system on the roof of a burning house.
According to the ILO, 4.2 million people worldwide already work in the field of renewable energies - and the trend is rising sharply. The ILO expects this figure to rise to 30 million by 2030.
Various News and publications on the subject of green jobs can be found on the ILO website. (in English).
