Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense across the globe, posing a significant health and safety risk for workers. Nearly half of the world’s population now faces high heat episodes, including over one billion workers. April 2024 set a new record as the hottest April ever, and parts of Europe are already experiencing higher-than-normal temperatures and heatwaves this June.

International SOS, a leading health and security services company, reported an 86% increase in client calls for heat-related assistance from 2021 to 2022, followed by a further 25% increase in 2023.

Heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion are major dangers for workers in extreme heat, leading to decreased productivity, more accidents, and even fatalities. Annually, excessive heat accounts for 22.85 million occupational injuries and 18,970 work-related deaths. By 2030, it is projected that more than 2% of total working hours worldwide will be lost due to extreme heat, equating to a productivity loss of 80 million full-time jobs. This impact is expected to be particularly severe in Southern Asia and Western Africa, where lost work hours could reach 5%.

Workers in various sectors are affected by extreme weather, with those in physically demanding or outdoor jobs at higher risk. Indoor industrial workers are also vulnerable if workplace temperatures are not properly regulated. Even basic office tasks can become challenging at high heat levels due to mental fatigue and cognitive decline.

Dr. Katherine O’Reilly, Regional Medical Director at International SOS, emphasizes the need for proactive measures to mitigate these risks. She highlights the importance of integrating heat stress risk assessments into health and safety policies and training employees to recognize early signs of heat illness. Early intervention can prevent medical emergencies and long-term health consequences.

International SOS recommends that organizations regularly assess their operations for potential heat stress hazards, identifying high-risk locations and activities and considering vulnerable employees, such as those with pre-existing health conditions or strenuous outdoor work. 

They should integrate heat safety into health and safety policies, ensuring workers have access to shaded areas, hydration stations, and breathable workwear suitable for high temperatures. Organizations should also provide heat stress awareness and prevention training, focusing on safe work practices in extreme heat, proper hydration, sun protection, and adjusting work pace during high temperatures. Training employees to recognize heat stress symptoms and establishing clear protocols for hydration, rest breaks, and cooling down are essential.

Developing robust heat response protocols, including first aid and emergency evacuation procedures, is crucial. These protocols should be communicated effectively, ensuring employees know who to contact in a heat emergency. Organizations should continuously review and update their heat response plans to reflect the latest information and best practices for heat safety.

By following these guidelines, organizations can better protect their workers and maintain productivity in the face of increasing heatwaves.