Climate Change Taking Toll on Workers’ Health – Report
The International Labour Organization (ILO) released a report highlighting the significant health risks climate change poses to workers worldwide. More than 70% of the global workforce, about 2.4 billion people, are expected to face health hazards related to climate change, with heat exposure being a primary concern. These hazards include not only heat stress but also a variety of other health issues like cancer, cardiovascular disease, respiratory illnesses, kidney problems, and mental health conditions.
The report identifies various health conditions linked to climate change, such as skin cancer from UV radiation, respiratory issues from air pollution, pesticide poisoning in agriculture, and deaths from parasitic and vector-borne diseases. Additionally, it underscores the urgency for integrating occupational safety and health (OSH) considerations into climate change responses, emphasizing the need for safe and healthy working environments.
The report suggests strategies for addressing these challenges, including revising or enacting legislation, regulations, and guidance, as well as implementing climate mitigation measures like energy efficiency improvements in workplaces. It calls for concerted efforts to uphold workers’ safety and health rights in the face of climate change impacts.
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