Over 70 per cent of global labour force working in extreme heat

UN Interviews

With temperature records set month after month, more people globally find themselves working in warmer conditions.

Some 2.4 billion workers – over 70 per cent of the global workforce – are exposed to extreme heat while on the job, according to a new report by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

The report shows that unlike in the 1950s, when heat exposure was a hazard in certain professions or sectors, today almost anybody can suffer heat stroke at work.

Balint Nafradi, occupational safety and hazard data expert at ILO, spoke to UN News’ Anton Uspensky about the report’s key findings and the laws that are being adopted based on the agency’s recommendations.

He also shared advice on how to work safely in the heat, including for athletes and staff at the Olympic Games in Paris.