Page 84 - OHS, June 2024

SUSTAINABILITY
Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Worker Health & Safety
The climate crisis significantly endangers worker health and safety across various industries, necessitating immediate adaptation strategies and legislative support.
BY MIA BARNES
The climate crisis impacts habitat health and biodiversity. The sentiment is true for engineers, academics and health care workers alike. Climate change side effects seep into ev- ery corner of life more annually, including workplaces. The repercussions expand until they diminish workers’ health and safety. How do these concerns correlate, and how will alleviating environ- mental burdens improve occupational wellness?
Effects of Climate Change on Worker Health
Rising temperatures and extreme weather are only a couple of in- fluences on health. Increasing natural disasters and harsh outdoor conditions make it challenging to thrive on the clock. Heat alone will impact an estimated 70 percent of workers1 worldwide.
Threats like hurricanes, wildfires, blizzards and dust storms compromise stability even before the event. Outdoor workers have more challenges since they bear the weight of the elements. Cli- mate change also amplifies pollution. Indoor and outdoor air qual- ity is in jeopardy, arriving in higher concentrations.
These factors are reasons why health ailments are more preva- lent2 than ever, including:
■ Respiratory compromises
■ Skin-related conditions and burns
■ Heat stroke or exhaustion
■ Waterborne illness
■ Mental health concerns
■ Cancer
■ Asthma
■ Cardiovascular disease
■ Dangers related to proximity to natural disaster-prone areas
Occupational Risks and Adaptation Strategies
The connection between a person, climate change and reduced workplace health is proven. What are the most affected sectors, and how can companies and policies protect the workforce?
Heat alone will impact an estimated 70 percent of workers worldwide, showcasing the widespread influence of climate change on occupational health.
Outdoor workers are exposed to environmental risks, such as UV radiation, air pollution and intense heat. They are more likely to encounter invasive species that carry toxic microorganisms and unknown illnesses. This includes construction, forestry and urban infrastructure.
Agriculture and fisheries are also affected since the volatile climate upends their work. The Gulf of Maine has witnessed oceanic tempera- tures rise 99 percent faster3 than the global ocean, threatening aquatic life and forcing workers to interact with dangerous waters.
The health care sector is always at high risk, but it is worse with climate change. Infectious diseases spread faster with increased in- door air and water pollution. A lack of infection isolation is part of the problem4 because facilities may not consider how climate change exacerbates it.
Truckers and public transit workers drive in intense natural conditions. Their jobs require them to be on the road regardless of conditions, so they may be inclined to drive in severe weather because of this obligation.
Several other notable sectors face climate challenges:
■ Manufacturing and industry. Poor ventilation, heat stress and supply chain disruptions caused by climate-induced material shortages.
■ Tourism and hospitality. Natural disasters near certain desti- nations and unsustainable tourism practices.
■ Water treatment. Interaction with foreign contaminants and pollutants.
Current Safety Guidelines and Regulation
Legislative action must support health and safety with climate- considerate standards. Several institutions work on more com- prehensive policies5, with The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) having the most prominent hand. It has several campaigns and rules to boost workplace wellness, includ- ing an Emergency Action Plan standard requiring companies to have strategies to deal with severe weather.
The National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) has many suggestions. The Worker Safety in Extreme Heat and Wildfire Smoke Exposure resources prepare to fight these pressures.
Others include:
■ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Provides models for clean air and water and disaster preparedness resources.
■ International Labor Organization (ILO). Has the Decent Work Agenda to promise safe conditions.
■ American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Con- ditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Contains ventilation and energy efficiency standards to improve indoor environments.
Improvement Strategies
Workers need restorative breaks to recharge mentally and physi-
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Occupational Health & Safety | JUNE 2024
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