Two-Thirds of Global Workers at Risk from Extreme Heat, Warns WHO
WHO warns that extreme heat poses health risks to two-thirds of global workers.
Key Points
- • 67% of workers globally face health risks from extreme heat, according to the WHO.
- • Extreme heat can lead to serious conditions like heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
- • Productivity in outdoor labor sectors could drop by over 20% due to rising temperatures.
- • Immediate action is needed to protect vulnerable workers from heat-related risks.
A recent report from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights alarming findings regarding the health risks posed by extreme heat to workers worldwide. According to the report, published on August 22, 2025, nearly 67% of workers are at risk due to rising temperatures, revealing the extensive impact of climate change on labor health and productivity.
The report emphasizes that extreme heat can lead to serious health issues such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and exacerbated cardiovascular problems. It notes that vulnerable populations, particularly those working outdoors in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and transportation, face the highest risks as they are often exposed to extreme weather conditions without adequate protections. The combination of global warming and occupational hazards is creating a critical need for new guidelines on worker protection in high-temperature environments.
As temperatures continue to rise, labor productivity is also expected to decrease significantly, predicting sharp declines in sectors heavily reliant on outdoor labor. Affected workers may see productivity drops of more than 20%, constraining their economic output and placing additional strain on already stressed healthcare systems.
In response to these findings, the WHO has called for immediate action from governments and employers to implement protective measures, including proper hydration, scheduled breaks, and shaded areas for rest. This marks a pivotal shift toward recognizing heat as a major occupational hazard that necessitates urgent policy responses to safeguard worker health and wellbeing.
The WHO's report serves as a wake-up call that underlines the critical intersection between climate change and public health. Studies indicate this issue is particularly pronounced in warmer regions, including parts of Spain, where laborers face similar risks during hotter months. As climate conditions worsen, the call for systemic changes in workplace health standards has never been more urgent.
In summary, the global workforce is at a critical crossroads when it comes to managing heat-related health risks. Worker safety protocols must adapt in response to the rising threat posed by extreme heat, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to protect the health of millions engaged in outdoor labor.