Heat Stress Threatens Global Workforce

In a recent alert, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have jointly highlighted the growing threat of heat stress on workers worldwide. Released on August 22, 2025, the report underscores the severe impact of rising temperatures on occupational health and productivity.

The report indicates that extreme heat, increasingly common due to climate change, poses significant risks to workers, particularly those in outdoor and physically demanding jobs. The WHO and WMO stress the urgency for protective measures and guidelines to safeguard workers from heat-related illnesses and fatalities.

According to the report, the agricultural, construction, and manufacturing sectors are among the most vulnerable, with millions of workers exposed to dangerous levels of heat stress. The UN agencies call for immediate action to implement intervention strategies, such as providing adequate hydration, rest breaks, and shaded areas for workers.

This warning serves as a critical reminder of the broader implications of climate change on human health and economic stability. The UN bodies urge countries to prioritize worker safety in their climate adaptation and mitigation plans to prevent adverse health outcomes and ensure workforce resilience.