UN labor agency report warns of rising threat of excess heat, climate change on world's workers
The U.N. labor organization warned Monday that over 70% of the world’s workforce is likely to be exposed to excessive heat during their careers, citing increased concern about exposure to sunlight. It also warned of air pollution, pesticides and other hazards that could lead to health problems including cancer.
In a new report, the International Labor Organization suggested ways that governments can improve their legislation and help cope with the rising effects of climate change on workers.
“It’s clear that climate change is already creating significant additional health hazards for workers,” said Manal Azzi, the organization’s team lead on occupational safety and health. “It is essential that we heed these warnings.”
The ILO estimates that over 2.4 billion workers — more than 70% of the global workforce — are likely to face excessive heat as part of their jobs at some point, according to the most recent figures available, from 2020. That’s up from over 65% in 2000.
