In a world on fire, workers get burned

In these chaotic times that many characterise in terms of rollback, regression, and retreat, there is one measure that continues to surge ahead — global temperature.

- Sally Tyler

The year 2024 was the hottest ever since worldwide temperature recording began. Though climate occupied a major space in discussions at the UN General Assembly in New York City last month, significant progress did not emerge from the fractured international environment.

President Trump called climate change a “con job” when he addressed the assembly, making it clear that the US will not join in working toward a solution to the climate crisis while he is in the White House.

Meanwhile, the health impacts of extreme heat are rising at a furious pace. Cardiovascular and kidney failure are common byproducts of soaring heat with deadly consequences. Research by the World Economic Forum projects that heatwaves will be responsible for two million additional deaths in the next 25 years.

While we are all put at risk by extreme heat, those who are most vulnerable to its ravages, and with the least recourse to protect themselves, are workers who must subject themselves to dangerous temperatures just to earn a living. Indeed, the UN's International Labour Organization posits that 70% of the global workforce is at risk from death or injury because of extreme heat. A new joint report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) calls for action to ameliorate the harm.

The prescription to prevent heat-related illness and death is not sophisticated, but it is effective: water, rest, and cooling. Yet, too many workers doing outdoor labour in the informal sector do not have access to those lifesaving measures or fear they will be sanctioned for using them.

Now, advocates and policymakers around the world are joining together to create heat action plans and laws designed to protect workers. Because conditions differ geographically and needs vary by sector, plans should be locally targeted and must involve workers in the planning process to be effective.