Billions of Workers Across the Globe Exposed to Climate Change Dangers, ILO Reports

The whole world is reeling from the effects of intense heat brought by climate change — the workforce, in particular — according to the International Labor Organization (ILO).

A new study from the ILO revealed that more than 70 percent of workers across the globe have been exposed to a number of serious climate change-related health hazards. That’s about 2.4 billion of the 3.4-billion working population.

ALSO READ

Global Food Prices to Soar as Climate Change Pushes Temperatures Higher, Says New Research

What Was The Hottest Temperature Ever Recorded in the Philippines?

Between 2000 and 2020, the number of workers exposed to excessive heat rose by 34.7 percent.

"Nearly 20,000 workers die yearly because of injuries in the workplace related to rising temperatures," said Manal Azzi, ILO senior specialist on occupational safety and health, noting that the number might actually be underestimated.

But since each worker may be exposed to multiple dangers simultaneously, it could be difficult to determine exactly how many of the total 3.4 billion global workforce are at risk.

Among the health conditions reported that could be linked to climate change are kidney dysfunction, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, and even mental health conditions.

The working poor — comprising largely of blue-collar workers, or those employed in non-office settings such as construction sites — are among the most vulnerable to climate hazards. This is due to their increased exposure to the dangers of heat waves and other extreme weather conditions. Those working in the informal economy, seasonal workers, and employees in micro and small enterprises may also be greatly affected.

What’s worse is that the areas of greatest concern are now turning out to be regions where heat was never a hot issue, but have become so because of climate change.

Heat is felt across northern and central Europe, based on the ILO report. South America is grappling with heat waves while Australia and Africa are experiencing UV radiation.

A number of countries have improved health conditions for workers, including Qatar, which prohibits outdoor work between 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. during the summer. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, labor groups are calling for measures and policies to cope with related conditions, with heat indices persisting above 40°C in Metro Manila and parts of the country.