Extreme Heat in Workplace: A Growing Global Crisis
Extreme heat in workplace environments is no longer just a seasonal issue, it has become a serious global crisis. According to a groundbreaking report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), millions of workers across industries face daily risks due to rising temperatures fueled by climate change.
The report, the first of its kind since 1969, highlights how climate-driven heatwaves are impacting workers’ health, safety, and productivity. Experts now warn that without urgent adaptation strategies, extreme heat in workplace settings could push many industries into crisis.
Why Extreme Heat in Workplace Conditions is Dangerous
Health experts stress that working under extreme heat in workplace conditions is more than just uncomfortable, it can be life-threatening.
WHO’s Director of Environment, Climate, and Health, Rüdiger Krech, warns:
“It is not just discomfort. It is a real health risk. If your body temperature rises above 38°C for extended periods, the risks of dehydration, kidney failure, stroke, and heat stress increase dramatically.”
Heatwaves, once rare, are now becoming the norm. The World Meteorological Organization confirms that the past decade was the hottest on record, with 2024 set to be the warmest year yet. In regions like Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, temperatures regularly soar above 40°C and even touch 50°C.
7 Alarming Risks of Extreme Heat in Workplace
The WHO/WMO report outlines multiple dangers workers face. Here are the seven most alarming risks:
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Severe Heat Stress – Prolonged exposure raises body temperature beyond safe levels.
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Increased Workplace Accidents – Studies show accidents rise by 7% when temperatures exceed 30°C.
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Declining Productivity – For every 1°C rise above 20°C, productivity drops by nearly 2%.
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Chronic Health Issues – Risks of kidney damage, cardiovascular problems, and long-term fatigue.
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Impaired Focus – Concentration drops significantly in extreme heat, leading to errors.
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Higher Employer Costs – Companies face losses from healthcare costs and reduced output.
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Impact on Vulnerable Groups – Children, elderly workers, and those with chronic illnesses face heightened danger.
Case Study: Europe’s Heatwave and Worker Safety
During Europe’s 2023 heatwave, Switzerland’s national accident insurance fund (Suva) revealed that when temperatures crossed 30°C, workplace accidents spiked sharply. Construction and agricultural workers were especially vulnerable.
To tackle this, Switzerland temporarily halted construction in Geneva and Ticino. Italy also introduced emergency decrees to stop workers from laboring during the hottest hours of the day.
Union leaders welcomed the move, stressing that companies must take responsibility for worker safety. Nico Lutz of Switzerland’s largest union, Unia, stated:
“Above a certain temperature, it’s simply irresponsible to keep working. Deadlines should never come before human health.”
Extreme Heat in Workplace and Its Impact on Schools
The problem doesn’t stop at factories and construction sites. Schools are also struggling to adapt to extreme heat.
In Germany, schools have long allowed “Hitzefrei” (heat-free days), sending students home when temperatures cross 30°C. But with 30°C now a common summer temperature, schools hesitate to interrupt education so frequently.
Swiss teachers face similar challenges. Dagmar Rösler, president of the Swiss teachers’ association, insists that better ventilation and cooling systems are essential:
“We can’t just teach in swimming pools. Classrooms must be redesigned to ensure both comfort and learning.”
Global Adaptation: What Needs to Be Done
The WHO and WMO stress that tackling extreme heat in workplace conditions requires collective adaptation strategies. This includes:
- Governments: Passing policies to protect workers during heatwaves.
- Employers: Offering flexible hours, shaded rest areas, and hydration stations.
- Unions: Advocating for worker rights and enforcing safety measures.
- Schools: Modernizing buildings with proper cooling and ventilation.
- Communities: Raising awareness about heat-related health risks.
- Investment is key. However, many governments are prioritizing defense spending over climate adaptation. Krech warns that ignoring adaptation could cost even more:
“If productivity drops, if workers fall ill, if industries shut down due to extreme heat in workplace environments, the financial consequences will be devastating.”
A Call to Action
Extreme heat in workplace environments is no longer a distant concern—it’s a present danger. Without immediate adaptation, millions of workers face health risks, industries will suffer productivity losses, and entire economies could weaken.
The WHO/WMO report should serve as a wake-up call: protecting workers from extreme heat is not optional, it’s essential.
