The International Labor Organization (ILO) issued a stark warning on Monday, stating that over 70% of the global workforce is at risk of being exposed to excessive heat during their careers. The organization highlighted the increased concern about exposure to sunlight, air pollution, pesticides, and other hazards that could lead to serious health problems, including cancer.
In a new report, the ILO outlined ways in which governments can improve legislation to address the rising effects of climate change on workers. Manal Azzi, the organization’s team lead on occupational safety and health, emphasized the urgent need to heed these warnings, stating that climate change is already creating significant health hazards for workers.
According to the ILO, over 2.4 billion workers worldwide are likely to face excessive heat as part of their jobs at some point in their careers. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with the organization citing a growing link between climate change and health issues such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems, and mental health disorders.
The report also highlighted the impact of workplace air pollution, with 1.6 billion workers exposed to harmful pollutants that contribute to over 860,000 work-related deaths among outdoor workers annually. The ILO emphasized the need for action to protect vulnerable workers, such as firefighters battling increasingly frequent and severe wildfires due to climate change.
As countries grapple with the health impacts of climate change on workers, the ILO called for increased surveillance of those exposed to heat, sunlight, and air pollution, as well as collective bargaining agreements to mitigate risks. The World Health Organization estimates that climate-related threats could claim a quarter of a million additional lives each year between 2030 and 2050.
Overall, the report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to protect workers from the health hazards exacerbated by climate change.