Jordan is currently witnessing a surge in temperatures as summer heats up, prompting authorities to issue repeated warnings about the potential risks of direct exposure to the sun. However, some professions inherently require such exposure, putting workers at risk of heatstroke and sunstroke, scientifically known as heat-related illnesses. Outdoor workers, in particular, are susceptible to the hazards of heat-related illnesses, necessitating the implementation of appropriate measures and strict adherence to safety protocols outlined by the Ministry of Labor in accordance with existing laws and regulations. Experts have emphasized to the Jordan News Agency that the impact of heat-related illnesses can vary on an individual’s health. While some may experience fatigue and tiredness, which can be alleviated with rest and regular hydration, others may face life-threatening conditions due to elevated internal body temperatures and heatstroke. To ensure a safe working environment during these extreme weather conditions, experts stress the importance of continuous temperature monitoring, increased rest breaks, access to ample drinking water, and efficient workplace cooling. Anas Sabah, a general physician, cautioned against the dangers faced by workers during heatwaves in summer, leading to heatstroke – a medical condition resulting from prolonged exposure to extreme heat, causing the body temperature to exceed 40 degrees Celsius and presenting symptoms of heatstroke. “Symptoms may include confusion, nervousness, delirium, altered mental state, excessive sweating, or abnormal dryness beyond the normal limit,” he said, adding that heatstroke can also cause nausea, vomiting, skin itchiness, redness, rapid breathing, and an increased heart rate, often accompanied by severe headaches. Linda Kalash, Director of Tamkeen Fields for Aid, stressed the urgency of enacting climate change-related legislation to protect laborers from its negative impacts. She called for the development of policies and occupational health and safety systems to address all risks arising from climate change, ensuring workers’ safety and well-being. Kalash emphasized the effects of climate change on various sectors, particularly agriculture, impacting workers, especially women who constitute a majority in the agricultural sector. Additionally, men in construction also face increased risks, leading to a rise in migration from rural areas to urban centers in search of better job opportunities. She urged the enhancement of labor standards and conditions to adapt to the challenges of climate change, providing a suitable work environment regardless of nationality, as well as vocational training and technical education to accommodate emerging specializations demanded by the labor market due to climate change, particularly for migrant workers. Saleh Badr, an industrial health consultant, highlighted the obligation to protect workers during the summer season, especially those working in open spaces under direct sunlight. Ensuring their health and safety is essential for maintaining productivity. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts to establish safe and healthy working conditions, raising awareness about heat-related illnesses and preventive measures in all labor sectors amid the unprecedented climate change impacting the global landscape. “Bayt Al-Ommal”, the Jordanian Center for Workers’ Rights, issued a statement this month, urging the protection of workers from the dangers of the ongoing heatwave and heat stress across different regions of the country. The statement emphasized the life-threatening nature of heat stress and recommended immediate first aid measures if heat stress symptoms are observed. Such measures include moving the affected worker to a cooler area, cooling them with water or ice, providing water to drink, and removing unnecessary clothing. If the worker’s condition worsens despite first aid measures, emergency medical care should be sought through the emergency number 911. Workers should be attended to until help arrives, especially if symptoms such as unconsciousness, agitation, confusion, inability to drink, and elevated body temperature of 40 degrees Celsius appear, indicating heatstroke and posing a potential threat to their lives.
Source: Jordan News Agency