Bilbao, Spain — Nearly 1 out of 3 European workers are concerned that extreme heat or other issues related to climate change will impact their safety and health, according to the results of a recent survey.
Researchers from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work conducted more than 28,000 phone and online interviews with workers ages 16 and older.
When asked whether climate change-related issues such as extreme heat or extreme weather could affect their safety and health at work, 31% of respondents agreed. Additionally, 18% said that measures intended to prevent risks related to climate change will alter their current job and tasks.
About 20% of the respondents reported being exposed to extreme heat either indoors or outdoors. At 35%, agriculture, horticulture, forestry or fishing represented the top affected occupational sector. Construction or building (26%) was next, while supply of gas, electricity or water, mining or quarrying (24%) followed.
Agriculture, horticulture, forestry or fishing also was the top affected sector related to air quality issues, at 30%. Construction or building (25%) and manufacturing or engineering (21%) were next.
Fifty-eight percent of the respondents said their employer allowed them to adjust their work to address the effect of climate change on health. Measures included offering flexible hours, regular breaks and job rotation. Slightly more than half (54%) indicated that measures such as thermal insulation, cooling systems and climate-appropriate personal protective equipment are available.
Just 30% said they have access to training or information on how to handle heat and other risks related to climate change on the job.
“Protecting the safety, health and dignity of Europe’s workforce must remain a top priority,” EU-OSHA Executive Director William Cockburn said in a press release. “This is especially important as we navigate the twin transitions of climate and digital change.”
