Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001915/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)
The problem of workers being exposed to extreme temperatures is becoming increasingly serious in the EU as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heat waves. In 2020, over 80 000 people fell ill and 67 died from working in extreme heat. This represents an alarming increase of 42 % in heat-related deaths at work in the EU since the turn of the century, affecting not only southern countries but also cooler climes such as Iceland, Ireland, Denmark and Norway.
Although the Commission has published guidance for employers, many of these measures are not being respected, which is putting the lives of workers at risk, especially in insecure and unregulated sectors. In the absence of clear legislation on maximum working temperatures, workers continue to be exposed to significant risks, with tragic consequences.
Does the Commission intend to bring forward a directive setting maximum temperature limits for outdoor work and protecting workers’ rights in terms of stopping work in conditions of extreme heat?
Submitted: 2.10.2024