(Commonwealth)_ As the planet continues to warm, workers across the globe are facing increasing risks from extreme heat and other climate-related hazards. The situation is particularly time-sensitive for vulnerable populations, especially those working informally without protections from employers. The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), a Commonwealth-accredited organisation and a founding member of the Commonwealth Communicators Group, highlights how principles of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) are critical to ensuring safer working conditions in this new climate reality.
A large proportion of the global workforce, approximately two-thirds, operates in the informal economy. These workers often lack access to basic safety measures and social protections. Climate change only worsens their situation, exposing them to excessive heat and other environmental hazards on a regular basis. Each year, around 2.41 billion workers, representing 71% of the global working population, are exposed to excessive heat, contributing to nearly 19,000 work-related deaths annually and over 2 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), a key measure of the overall disease burden.
Outside of recognized heat waves, most heat-related workplace exposures occur, and these conditions significantly contribute to the majority of occupational injuries. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has projected that by 2030, high temperatures related to climate change could result in the loss of 3.8% of total global working hours—equivalent to 136 million full-time jobs— and estimated economic losses of $2.4 trillion.
Despite these concerning figures, the situation is not without hope. There is growing global awareness of the occupational risks posed by climate change. Governments, industries, and employers are increasingly turning to OSH professionals to conduct thorough risk assessments and implement effective control measures that safeguard workers’ health, safety, and well-being.
As the world’s largest body for safety and health professionals, IOSH plays a key role in this effort. The organisation supports the global push for safe and healthy working environments, advocating for strong policies and effective practices. In 2022, the ILO established a safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental right at work, applying to all workers regardless of their occupation or workplace. This recognition set a global baseline, emphasizing that every worker deserves to complete their job in the same physical and mental condition in which they began.
OSH professionals are central to achieving this goal. They assess and manage risks such as extreme temperatures, sun exposure, hazardous chemicals, air pollution, and biological threats, all of which are increasingly tied to climate change. Their work reduces injury and illness and supports the broader aim of socially sustainable business. Healthy workers are productive, and businesses that prioritize OSH are better positioned to thrive in the long term.
Strategic partnerships amplify the impact of OSH initiatives. For example, IOSH collaborates with local governments, the ILO, and civil society organisations in rural industries projects in countries like Ghana and Kenya. These projects focus on supporting women and other vulnerable groups who work in hazardous informal occupations affected by climate impacts. By delivering professional OSH training and resources, these efforts help mitigate climate-related harm and promote safe working environments.
While the public may not notice heat exposure and its consequences, OSH professionals are actively addressing these risks in the background. Their expertise in identifying and managing risk is vital in anticipating and preparing for the challenges of a changing climate.
As climate hazards intensify, it is imperative to invest in occupational safety and health. With the right resources and collaborative efforts, the risks associated with a rapidly heating world can be effectively managed, ensuring that all workers, regardless of where they live or what job they do, have the chance to work safely and with dignity.
