GENEVA - The World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Friday urged global action to address the escalating health threats posed by extreme heat to workers worldwide.

The year 2024 marked the hottest one on record, with daytime temperatures exceeding 40 degrees centigrade, even 50 degrees centigrade in some regions, a phenomenon which is becoming increasingly common, according to a comprehensive report and technical guidance jointly released by the WHO and WMO.

"Heat stress is already harming the health and livelihoods of billions of workers, especially in the most vulnerable communities," said Jeremy Farrar, assistant director-general for health promotion, disease prevention and care at the WHO.

Health risks including heatstroke, dehydration, kidney dysfunction and neurological disorders are undermining the long-term health and economic stability of workers worldwide, said the report, adding that approximately half of the global population have already experienced adverse effects from high temperatures.

Occupational heat stress has become a global challenge, not just confined to countries close to the Equator, as highlighted by the recent heatwave in Europe, said WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett. "Protection of workers from extreme heat is not just a health imperative but an economic necessity," Barrett said.

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The guidance outlines a multi-stakeholder approach to mitigate risks, including developing national policies, prioritizing vulnerable groups, as well as fostering collaboration among governments, employers, trade unions and health experts.