World Day for Safety and Health at Work and Key Narratives of Today

Every year on April 28, the world community celebrates this day as Occupational Safety and Health Day.
 
This year, in line with the theme, set by the International Labour Organization (ILO), we are focusing on “The Impact of Climate Change on Occupational Safety and Health”. 


Climate change is making significant adjustments to all aspects of life, including conditions and safety in the workplace. As the consulting company that provides occupational health and safety services, we consider it our duty to consider in detail exactly how climate change can affect the working environment and what steps can be taken to minimize these impacts.
       1.    Rising temperatures
Climate change is leading to an increase in average temperatures, which can create dangerous working conditions, especially in industry and outdoors. High temperatures can cause sunstroke, dehydration and other serious health problems. Measures that can be implemented:
  • Installation of cooling systems at workplaces.
  • Adapting work schedules to avoid the hottest hours.
  • Regular training of employees on the prevention of sunstroke.
       2.    Extreme weather conditions
The occurrence of storms, hurricanes and other extreme weather events requires a revision of workplace safety standards:
  • Strengthening infrastructure and facilities so that they can withstand extreme weather conditions.
  • Development and implementation of evacuation plans and emergency procedures.
  • Constant monitoring of weather conditions and prompt informing of employees about possible threats.
       3.    Change in agro-climatic conditions
Climate change also affects the agricultural sector, changing the conditions for growing and running agriculture, which can lead to new occupational risks:
  • Adaptation of agro-industrial technologies and crop options to changed conditions.
  • Raising awareness and educating employees about new risks and how to counteract them.
       4.    Air pollution
The increase in air pollution, which is often accompanied by climate changes, can seriously worsen conditions at work, especially in urban and industrial areas:
  • Implementation of air filtration and purification systems at workplaces.
  • Monitoring air quality and taking action when critical indicators are exceeded.
  • Use of personal protective equipment, such as respirators, if necessary.
       5.    Biological changes
Changes in biological systems, such as the spread of new diseases and changes in pest populations, can affect health and safety in agriculture and other sectors:
  • Adaptation of disease control and prevention methods in response to new epidemiological threats.
  • Training of employees on the implementation of innovative methods of pest and disease control.
  • Regular updates on vaccinations and medical protocols.

Awareness and active implementation of safety measures are crucial for adapting to the impacts of climate change. At the micro, meso, and macro levels, the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, non-profit organizations, and individuals, are needed to shape policies that ensure long-term resilience and security in the face of climate change.

We, BDO in Ukraine, are committed to do these efforts and offer services for risk analysis, safety planning and training workshops on climate change adaptation, you can reach out to us for additional consultation.

In conclusion, we encourage each of you to keep working with dedication to create a safe working environment and implement the best practices identified within the ILO. May your efforts in this important mission be successful and effective.

Key Contact

Victoria Sukhanenko

Victoria Sukhanenko

Head of Advisory on Occupational Health & Safety
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