The Impact of Climate Change on Occupational Health and Safety
In 1970, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) was enacted to curb the increasing numbers of injuries and fatalities in the workplace. Fifty years on, the objective remains the same, albeit with an expanded scope to cover modern risks such as musculoskeletal disorders and bloodborne pathogen exposures. Recently, climate change has gained significant attention as a matter of occupational health and safety.
Climate change is a crucial concern because of its effects on temperatures and air quality, posing great risks to employees, especially those working outdoors or in buildings with insufficient climate control. The repercussions include poor productivity and increased compensation costs due to heat-related conditions.
Climate Change and Occupational Health
The United States Environmental Agency (EPA) notes that rising temperatures trap pollutants in the air, hence increasing the danger of various health issues. Heat-related illnesses, kidney problems, and respiratory diseases are among conditions worsened by high heat and polluted air.
To protect employees from climate change’s adverse health effects, it’s crucial for companies to adhere to occupational and environmental guidelines set out by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Non-compliance could potentially lead to severe or even fatal outcomes.
Ronda McCarthy, MD, MPH, FACPM, FACOEM, of Concentra, noted that many heat-related illnesses and fatalities were preventable, advocating for written plan for their prevention. She encouraged employers to utilize resources on the OSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) websites.
Addressing Environmental Health in the Workplace
Awareness of occupational health risks is increasing, with companies finding innovative ways to manage these risks and promote a culture of health and safety. However, adopting environmentally friendly practices may need a more equal targeted effort and long-standing commitment.
Workforce Attitudes Towards Environmental Safety
Workers want more action from employers, and some are even willing to leave their jobs if their employers’ environmental policies do not match their values. In a 2023 survey, 51 percent of U.S. employees stated they would consider resigning if their company’s environmental actions did not align with their beliefs. This worrying trend, dubbed “climate-quitting,” is more prevalent among millennials and Gen Z, with 44 percent saying they would be willing to quit over environmental health and safety concerns.
Planning for Heat Stress Prevention
With clear data indicating a rise in global temperatures, employers need to formulate or update their heat stress prevention protocols. These should comprise preventive health measures pinpointing indicators of environmental pollutants and signals of health disorders linked to extreme heat exposure. A solid acclimatization plan is essential to help workers gradually adapt to hot climates, according to Dr. McCarthy.
Mitigating Heat Stress Risks
Dr. McCarthy advised employers to follow a “20 percent rule” for employees acclimatizing to the heat. This guideline suggests that on the first day, the worker should not work more than 20 percent of the shift’s duration at full intensity in the heat, increasing the time slowly each day until fully accustomed. Other recommendations include regular breaks and drinking cool water every 20 minutes.
The Importance of Medical Surveillance in Occupational Health
Medical surveillance can help employers assess potentially toxic and hazardous substances in the workplace and track their impact on workers’ health. By early detection of workforce health issues, appropriate countermeasures can be implemented to prevent or treat complications.
Developing a Medical Surveillance Program
Dr. McCarthy underlined the importance of medical surveillance programs which include baseline and periodic evaluations to assess and monitor workers’ health, especially while working in heated environments. While these are often recommended, not mandated by OSHA, Concentra offers medical surveillance services including biologic monitoring, baseline exams, and periodic exams for the early detection of illnesses. These services can also help identify reversible health effects before they become serious or irreversible.
Addressing Climate Change in Business Operations
The effects of climate change on workplaces and employees are substantial, and businesses must rise to the task of addressing these issues. Integrating medical surveillance monitoring services can help identify safety risks aggravated by climate change and take necessary action before exposure levels exceed safety limits. As climate change continues to affect various sectors, businesses must adapt to ensure the safety and health of their workforce.