Overview

• WHO and WMO issued updated technical guidance calling for tailored occupational heat‑action plans across regions and industries.
• The push follows escalating extremes, with 2024 confirmed as the hottest year on record and daytime highs above 40–50°C becoming more common.
• ILO estimates cited in the report count 2.4 billion workers exposed to excessive heat, 22.85 million heat‑linked injuries and nearly 19,000 deaths each year.
• Worker productivity typically declines 2–3% for every degree Celsius above 20°C, elevating heat protection from a health need to an economic priority.
• Recommended steps include rest breaks, shade, water, shift scheduling, training and buddy systems, with priority for high‑risk sectors and vulnerable populations.