New York , USA– August 26, 2025
A Global Health Threat Looms as Extreme Heat Impacts Workers
A new joint report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) highlights the increasing and devastating impact of extreme heat on workers’ health and productivity worldwide. As climate change drives more frequent and intense heatwaves, the report warns that billions of workers, particularly those in manual labor sectors like agriculture and construction, are facing serious health risks and significant drops in productivity.
The report, titled Climate Change and Workplace Heat Stress, draws on five decades of research to paint a clear picture of a global crisis that is no longer confined to equatorial regions. Health risks for workers exposed to high temperatures include a rise in heatstroke, dehydration, kidney dysfunction, and even neurological disorders. WMO data shows that 2024 was the hottest year on record, with daytime temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) and even reaching 50°C (122°F) in some parts of the world.
Key Findings and Recommendations
* Productivity Drops: The report estimates that worker productivity drops by 2-3% for every degree above 20°C (68°F). This decline in output has significant economic implications for both individuals and national economies.
* Widespread Exposure: According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), more than 2.4 billion workers globally are exposed to excessive heat, leading to over 22.8 million occupational injuries annually. This makes heat stress a major contributor to occupational injuries and illnesses.
* Risk Factors: The report identifies that vulnerable populations, including middle-aged and older workers, those with chronic health conditions, and individuals with lower physical fitness, are at a higher risk of heat stress.
* Urgent Action: The WHO and WMO are calling on governments, employers, and health authorities to implement urgent and feasible preventive measures. These include developing heat-health policies, providing access to hydration and cooling areas, and offering training to help workers identify the signs of heat stress.
The report emphasizes that protecting workers from extreme heat is not only a health imperative but an economic necessity. The cumulative effects of working in high heat over extended periods can compromise a worker’s long-term health, leading to chronic diseases. The guidance aims to provide practical, evidence-based solutions to help societies build more resilient workforces in a warming world.
