Geneva: The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) have published a new joint report and guidance highlighting the growing global health challenges posed by extreme heat on workers. The report focuses on the increasing risks and health impacts that rising temperatures pose to workers, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and fisheries.

According to Emirates News Agency, the report outlines that climate change is driving more frequent and intense heatwaves, causing significant health issues for workers who are regularly exposed to dangerous heat conditions. This is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations in developing countries, including children, older adults, and low-income populations.

'Heat stress is already harming the health and livelihoods of billions of workers, especially in the most vulnerable communities,' said Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO Assistant Director-General, Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Care. The report provides practical, evidence-based solutions aimed at protecting lives, reducing inequality, and building more resilient workforces in a warming world.

The report, entitled "Climate change and workplace heat stress," draws on five decades of research and evidence, highlighting the severe impact of rising temperatures on workers' health and productivity. WMO has also noted that 2024 was the hottest year on record, with temperatures exceeding 40°C and even 50°C becoming increasingly common, underscoring the urgent need for immediate action to address the impact of heat stress on workers globally.

'Occupational heat stress has become a global societal challenge, which is no longer confined to countries located close to the equator - as highlighted by the recent heatwave in Europe,' said WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett. The report emphasizes that protecting workers from extreme heat is not just a health imperative but also an economic necessity.