International SOS, a global leader in health, security risk management and well-being solutions, operating through EMSA Qatar, issued the warning as heatwaves expected to become more severe. Almost half of the global population, including over one billion workers, are at risk of being exposed to high-heat episodes due to higher-than-normal temperatures and heatwaves, which have already been recorded in June 2024 and this year’s April being the hottest April on record. Heatstroke, dehydration and heat exhaustion are just some of the dangers workers face in extreme heat conditions.
These conditions can lead to decreased productivity, increased accidents and even fatalities. Annually, 22.85 million occupational injuries and 18,970 work-related fatalities are attributable to excessive heat.
Workers across various sectors are impacted by extreme weather events, however, certain occupations are especially at risk as they involve more physical effort and/or take place outdoors. Industrial workers in indoor settings are also at risk if temperature levels inside factories and workshops are not regulated properly. At high heat levels, performing even basic office and desk tasks can be challenging as it can cause mental fatigue, while physiological and cognitive abilities can decline due to heat strain.
Exposure to excessive heat can also lead to serious health risks, including heatstroke and even death. Proactive measures from organisations are crucial to mitigate these risks and saf.
