New Safety Standards Needed as Climate Change Affects Global Workforce

Friday, April 26, 2024

In recognition of World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28, International SOS advises organizations to review and update their occupational safety and health (OSH) programs. With climate change exacerbating OSH challenges, it’s crucial for organizations to focus on proactive measures. This year’s theme, “Impacts of climate change on occupational safety and health,” underscores the critical nature of these growing concerns.

According to the latest International Labour Organization (ILO) report, over 70% of the global workforce is at risk of exposure to climate-related health hazards, such as extreme heat stress, deteriorating air quality, and more frequent severe weather events. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has forecasted a reduction in labour productivity growth due to the effects of climate change, predicting that by 2030, climate-induced extreme temperatures could lead to a loss of more than 2% of total annual working hours globally, affecting worker safety and productivity.

Dr Olivier Lo, Global Medical Director, Occupational Health Services, at International SOS “The escalating threats of climate change necessitate a heightened focus on managing risk exposure and health incidents for the workforce. At International SOS, we saw an 80% increase in climate-related medical alerts throughout the majority of 2023 compared to 2022. This concerning trend is further highlighted by the International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 report, with four of the top five health risks identified by respondents being related to climate or weather factors.4 With climate change adding urgency, it is crucial for organisations to acknowledge its combined impact with existing OSH threats. This is key to effectively safeguard workforce safety, health and manage productivity.”

Historically, occupational health and safety have concentrated on physical safety, accident prevention, and sustaining a healthy work environment but have often underestimated the implications of climate change on workforce well-being. Extreme weather and climate-related disasters are increasingly threatening mental health and psychosocial stability, potentially causing distress, anxiety, depression, grief, and even suicidal tendencies.

Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director – Indian Subcontinent adds “With Southeast Asia bearing the brunt of an unprecedented heat wave this year, it is essential for organisations to go beyond mere compliance and redesigning their workforce health and wellbeing programs to include the capability to respond to health threats posed by climate change. Regular assessments and adaptations are key to ensuring workforce safety in this evolving landscape. By proactively managing emerging occupational health and safety risks, organisations can not only create positive work environments, but also contribute to a more sustainable future. This includes mental and emotional wellbeing support, chronic disease management and preventive healthcare.”

To safeguard employee safety, health, and well-being in an evolving climate, International SOS recommends organizations take the following steps:

1. Conduct regular risk assessments to include climate-specific hazards, considering rising temperatures, extreme weather, and shifting air quality. Pinpoint vulnerable workforce segments and locations most susceptible to climate effects.
2. Enhance worker health and safety by incorporating climate factors into existing health and safety frameworks. Promote awareness and prevention of heat stress through hydration protocols and scheduled rest breaks.
3. Bolster mental health and well-being support by developing resources and training to assist employees in managing the psychological impacts of extreme weather or environmental catastrophes. Ensure access to mental health professionals to help address climate-related anxiety or stress.
4. Introduce climate-ready training programs to prepare the workforce with the knowledge and skills required for safe operations in a changing climate. This includes training on emergency preparedness and safe work practices during events like floods or wildfires.
5. Establish robust incident response protocols for handling heat-related illnesses and accidents during extreme weather or other climate-related incidents. Maintain a system for ongoing improvement by regularly reviewing incidents and refining protocols as necessary.

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