More than 70 percent of employees affected by climate-related health risks

The latest International Labor Organization (ILO) study on occupational safety in the context of climate change sheds light on the increasing health risks faced by workers worldwide. The results show that more than 70 percent of global workers are expected to face climate-related health hazards. This alarming finding highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to ensure occupational health and safety in times of climate change.

Rapid response required

The study highlights that climate change not only leads to an increase in temperatures, but also brings with it a variety of hazards that can lead to serious health problems for workers. These include not only heat stress, but also UV radiation, air pollution, pesticide exposure and the risk of parasitic and vector-borne diseases (e.g. mosquitoes or ticks). These multiple health risks require a rapid and coordinated response to protect workers worldwide.

The study also calls for greater integration of occupational health and safety into policies and strategies to combat climate change. This requires not only the revision of existing laws and regulations, but also the development of new approaches to make workplaces safer and more resilient to the effects of climate change.

Effective solutions needed

With the increasing threat of climate change to occupational health and safety, it is imperative that governments, employers and workers act together to find effective solutions and improve working conditions worldwide. The ILO stands ready to support these efforts and drive the implementation of measures to ensure the health and safety of workers in a changing climate future.

Source: ILO