Impact of climate change on occupational safety has not yet been widely identified
Approximately every second workplace has recognized the effects of climate change at the workplace, but they have not been dealt with from the point of view of occupational safety
Slightly more than half (53%) of respondents of the occupational safety and health panel estimated that climate change has affected the activities of their workplace to at least some extent, and about one in ten (8%) estimate the impact to be significant or extensive. The most frequently mentioned impacts were energy solutions, material and product choices, recycling, emission reduction, climate-friendly strategy and preparing for extreme weather conditions.
What kind of climate change issues have emerged and how is climate change visible in your workplace?
412 answers
Excerpts from the answers:
Production takes this aspect into consideration by selecting energy-friendly components.
We have stepped up recycling over the past few years.
Transitioning transport to gas and/or electric powered vehicles by 2035.
A climate change target was added to the Group's strategy.
A few really hot summers… without air conditioning to cool down. Has brought challenges to coping at work.
We use an electricity company that generates electricity using wind power.
Campaigns for saving energy and water.
More energy-friendly solutions are preferred in design because improving buildings’ energy efficiency is also starting to be reflected in calls for tenders.
Remote work is possible for many, which reduces the need for unnecessary driving.
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Risk assessment is the most common tool for managing occupational safety risks related to climate change
Risk assessment is one of the tools workplaces have used for managing risks related to climate change. Occupational safety risks related to climate change are taken into account as part of normal risk assessment practice. Other measures include managing exposure to heat, preventing slipperiness and the provision of training and guidance.
What kind of training and competence building would you like to see in the future for the assessment and management of occupational safety risks related to climate change?
118 answers
Excerpts from the answers:
Everything in general – we have not thought about climate change that much.
Appropriate knowledge-based training.
In connection with the assessment of hazards and risks.
As much general knowledge as possible, such as regarding specific characteristics of various sectors, and how to assess and predict them.
At least practical ways to save and recycle energy in the workplace.
VReady-made training packages or material to address the issue at the workplace.
I would like the topic to generally be discussed and kept visible more.
Physiological stress factors caused by extreme weather phenomena, their identification and means of reducing their impact.
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Workplaces need diverse and comprehensive information on the impacts and management of climate change from the perspective of occupational safety
Occupational safety and health personnel felt that climate change is a new issue in occupational safety and health, which is why comprehensive and diverse information is required: basic information, facts, information on identifying safety risks, as well as information specific to various sectors and professions. The respondents wish for easy-to-use webinars and information bulletins, practical examples and measures, as well as material for joint discussion in the workplace.
What actions have been taken at your workplace to manage the occupational safety risks associated with climate change?
140 answers
Excerpts from the answers:
Topics covered in the risk assessment includes temperatures, heatwaves, slipperiness, and considering measures and preventive methods.
Risk assessment has taken into account increase in the number of electric cars and the difficulty of putting out lithium battery fires.
During heatwaves, employees have been allowed to take breaks more often and they have been offered refreshments.
Better cooling and HVAC equipment has been procured.
For example, campaigning and training material regarding safe work movements and commuting.
Regular training sessions include it as one thematic element.
During winter, attention has been paid to the slipperiness of the yard and entrance area.
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Limited preparedness for occupational safety risks related to climate change
Monitoring of occupational safety risks related to climate change is limited, and mainly makes use of existing monitoring practices (such as risk assessments and monitoring of weather conditions) as well as general discussion and news reporting.
According to the 2021 Occupational Safety and Health Panel, approximately every second workplace has recognized the effects of climate change at the workplace, but they have not been dealt with from the point of view of occupational safety
