Roughly 2.4 billion global workers will likely be exposed to health hazards like cancer, cardiovascular illness, kidney dysfunction and physical injury due to climate change, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). Excessive heat affects 70% of the global workforce, the data showed, causing 18,970 work-related deaths and around 23 million workplace injuries annually. "From blistering heatwaves to dangerously poor air quality, workers bear the brunt of its effects, frequently finding themselves with no choice but to continue working, without adequate protection or recourse," the ILO said in the report. "As temperatures soar, those working outdoors in agriculture, construction, fishing and transport are particularly vulnerable, facing heightened risks of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke." Other key insights from the study include:
  • From blistering heatwaves to dangerously poor air quality, workers bear the brunt of the effects, frequently finding themselves with no choice but to continue working, without adequate protection or recourse, even if conditions are hazardous.
  • As temperatures soar, those working outdoors in agriculture, construction, fishing and transport are particularly vulnerable, facing heightened risks of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke.
  • Air pollution exacerbated by climate change heightens the risk of respiratory illnesses.
  • Beyond heat stress and air pollution, the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events present additional challenges for workplace safety and health.
  • Women are disproportionately affected, as long-standing inequalities and limited access to resources hinder their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Meanwhile, work-related accidents in the U.S. happen more often when the temperature rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The probability of injuries at work jumps 5% to 6% on hotter days, with construction workers in the American South at the greatest risk The slideshow above illustrates the safest states for outdoor workers as selected by Lawn Love. See also:

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Joe Toppe

Joe Toppe serves as managing editor of PropertyCasualty360.com. Joe is also a father of three, an author, and longtime lover of baseball.

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