(in German)

Global Climate Change has many effects: It leads to a warmer climate with growing exposure to heat and solar UV, especially when working outdoors. Vectors carrying infectious diseases will emerge or increase in numbers, and so will allergens and toxins posed by flora and fauna. The frequency of extreme weather events are likely to increase as well. The associated hazards in employees present a particular challenge for occupational safety and health. Providing assessment standards and protective measures adapted to the impact of climate change is a primary objective. A thorough analysis of scientific literature as well as a listing of ongoing activities considering various actors document the current state of knowledge on "climate change and occupational safety and health". Subsequently, potential challenges and research needs for occupational safety and health were derived. The risk factors 'heat', 'solar UV radiation', 'infectious diseases as well as 'plant and animal allergens and toxins' were elaborated in more detail while the risk factor 'extreme weather events' was considered briefly.

Please download the complete report "Climate Change and Safety at Work" (in German only).