Labour Ministry Issues Advisory to Protect Blue-Collar Workers Amid Rising Heatwaves

The Ministry of Labour and Employment has issued an advisory to all state governments and Union Territories, urging them to implement measures to safeguard workers from the adverse effects of extreme heat during the upcoming summer months. This directive comes in response to forecasts by the India Meteorological Department indicating above-normal maximum temperatures across most parts of the country. The advisory specifically targets sectors such as construction, mining, and brick kilns, where workers are most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.​

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In a letter dated April 12, 2024, Labour Secretary Sumita Dawar emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to mitigate the impact of high temperatures on workers. The ministry has recommended several strategies, including:​

• Rescheduling Work Hours: Adjusting working hours to avoid peak heat periods, thereby reducing exposure to extreme temperatures.​

• Provision of Adequate Drinking Water: Ensuring easy access to potable water to prevent dehydration among workers.​

• Emergency Heat Illness Prevention Materials: Providing items such as ice packs and electrolyte solutions to manage heat stress.​

• Regular Health Check-ups: Coordinating with health departments to monitor workers' health and provide timely medical assistance.

The advisory also calls for the dissemination of heat-related guidelines at labor chowks to raise awareness among daily wage earners and casual laborers. This initiative aims to empower workers with knowledge on how to protect themselves during extreme heat conditions.​

The urgency of these measures is underscored by recent data indicating significant productivity losses due to heat stress. Studies have shown that outdoor workers in cities like New Delhi experience a 25% reduction in labor output during extreme heat, with projections suggesting economic losses could reach 30% by 2050 if no adaptive measures are taken . Furthermore, the International Labour Organisation reports that India could lose the equivalent of 34 million full-time jobs by 2030 due to heat stress, particularly affecting sectors like agriculture and construction .​

Conclusion

The Labour Ministry's advisory represents a proactive step towards addressing the growing concern of heat-related health risks among blue-collar workers. By implementing the recommended measures, state governments and industries can play a crucial role in protecting the health and productivity of workers during the hot weather season. It is imperative that these guidelines are not only adopted but also effectively enforced to ensure the well-being of the workforce and mitigate potential economic losses.