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As the effects of climate change intensify, the health and safety of workers have become an important issue. Climate-related events such as high temperatures, floods, droughts, and storms adversely affect workers' health and increase risks in the workplace.
The International Labor Organisation (ILO) recently released a report titled "Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate". This report highlights the global challenges that workers face due to climate change.
The findings of this report paint a grim picture: more than 70 per cent of the global workforce could face health risks due to climate change. This enormous risk highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect the well-being of workers in the face of environmental challenges.
The ILO report noted that more than 2.4 billion workers worldwide are at risk of exposure to excessive heat during their work, a significant increase from the previous year. This increased risk disproportionately affects sectors such as agriculture, construction, and outdoor labour-intensive industries, where workers engage in prolonged work in extreme temperatures.
The report also states that this risk will increase due to climate change. As temperatures rise, more people will be exposed to harmful heat levels, increasing health risks and productivity losses.
The effects of extreme heat waves are not limited to direct risks, but heat stress increases with climate change, creating a "cocktail of hazards" for workers. This hazardous environment is leading to various health problems, including increased exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation; suffering from dehydration and diarrhea; respiratory problems; cardiovascular problems and effects on mental health.
The report states that an estimated 1.6 billion workers are exposed to UV radiation at works due to high temperature. Excess UV radiation increases the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer, which is responsible for more than 18,960 work-related deaths each year.
Extreme temperatures cause rapid water loss from the body, thereby increasing the risk of dehydration and diarrhea. The risk is exceptionally high for workers engaged in manual labour.
Exposure to dust, fumes, chemicals, and heat can cause respiratory problems. Long-term exposure can cause asthma, bronchitis, and even cancer.
The report also mentioned that extreme heat can stress the cardiovascular system through increased heart rate, blood pressure, and dehydration. As a result, the risk of heart disease and stroke increases.
Extreme heat can cause stress, irritability, loss of concentration, and sleep problems. Long-term effects can include depression, anxiety, and even an increased risk of suicide.
The ILO report stated that heatstroke is not only an environmental problem but also a severe occupational hazard. Urgent measures should be taken to reduce heat stress in the workplace and ensure workers' safety. Measures such as regular breaks, drinking plenty of water, cooling, and protection from UV radiation should be taken.
Air Pollution and pesticide use in the workplace are major public health problems. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), workplace air pollution affects 1.6 billion workers each year and causes 860,000 deaths among outdoor workers. Furthermore, more than 870 million agricultural workers worldwide are exposed to pesticides, resulting in more than 300,000 deaths annually.
Climate change also accelerates the spread of parasites and vector-borne diseases, which are particularly vulnerable among agricultural and construction workers. Malaria, Dengue, and diseases such as downy mildew thrive in warmer climates and can spread to new areas.
Climate change affects many sectors of Bangladesh's economy, but its impact on workers' occupational safety and health is of particular concern. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather events pose several risks to agriculture, construction, and manufacturing workers.
Bangladesh is experiencing the adverse effects of climate change, including extreme heat waves, floods, droughts, and rising sea levels. These changes are having a significant impact on various sectors of the country's economy, especially on the working people.
To address these risks, a coordinated and multifaceted response is required. Policymakers need to develop new laws and regulations to protect workers. Employers need to increase training and safety measures. And workers need to be aware of their risks and take steps to protect themselves.
The ILO report emphasises the need for concerted efforts by governments, employers, labour organisations and civil society to prioritise the safety and health of workers in changing climate. Strong policies, capacity building, and awareness-raising campaigns are essential to address climate-related health risks for workers.
The report carries an urgent message to world leaders and policymakers. Rapid and effective action is essential to protect workers from the effects of climate change. As the impacts of climate change rapidly unfold, more proactive action, knowledge-based policies, and concerted efforts have become imperative to ensure workers' right to work in safe and healthy environments.
In addition to addressing traditional workplace risks, we must adapt to the new realities of climate change. We can build a more resilient workplace future through the combined efforts of governments, employers, workers and international organisations.
Dr Matiur Rahman is a researcher and development worker.