Climate change poses a multifaceted threat to workers, affecting their health, safety, and overall working conditions.

This was been highlighted by Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh during World Day for Safety and Health at Work event in Suva yesterday.

Singh says from increased heat stress and air pollution to the spread of vector-borne diseases, workers face challenges exacerbated by environmental degradation.

Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh

He states that by recognizing the direct link between climate change and working conditions, they are taking proactive steps to safeguard workers and mitigate the risks they face.

“The risks and hazards associated with environmental degradation and climate change tend to affect workers in vulnerable situations most strongly. Priority actions of both national and workplace levels should constantly evolve to consider new evidence of these emerging risks.”

Singh adds this shift in approach not only addresses immediate health and safety concerns but also acknowledges the implications for productivity, cost of production, accidents, and absenteeism.