It noted that regions previously unaccustomed to extreme heat would face increased risks, while workers in already hot climates would confront ever more dangerous conditions.

According to ILO, heat stress is an invisible and silent killer that can quickly cause illness, heatstroke or even death, adding that over time it could also lead to serious heart, lung and kidney problems for workers.

The report indicated that workers in Africa, the Arab states, Asia, and the Pacific were most often exposed to excessive heat.

“In these regions, 92.9 per cent, 83.6 per cent and 74.7 per cent of the workforce are affected, respectively. The figures are above the global average of 71 per cent, according to the most recent figures available (2020),” it added.

It stated that those fastest-changing working conditions were seen in Europe and Central Asia, noting that from 2000 to 2020 the region recorded the largest increase in excessive heat exposure, with the proportion of workers affected rising by 17.3 per cent, almost double the global average increase.

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