Impacts of Climate Change on Occupational Health and Safety: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Climate change, a continual variation in weather condition orchestrated by human activities is no longer a distant threat. Its impacts are increasingly evident across the globe, affecting various aspects of human life. Among the myriad consequences of climate change, its implications for occupational health and safety are significant but often overlooked. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the impacts of climate change on occupational health and safety, examining the direct and indirect effects on workers across different sectors. By synthesizing current research and empirical evidence, this paper highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate risks and protect workers in the face of a changing climate. The mitigation measures include investing in prevention, preparedness, and resilience-building measures, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), workplace modifications, and emergency response plans. Others are capacity building, training, and awareness-raising initiatives for employers, workers, and occupational health professionals, strengthened collaboration and partnerships between government agencies, employers, workers' organizations, and other stakeholders among others.