As Heatwaves Intensify, Workers Demand Safety and Protection from Deadly Conditions

Southern Europe is experiencing a severe heatwave as the summer progresses. While air conditioning offers relief indoors, outdoor labor becomes incredibly challenging, sometimes with fatal consequences.

In Barcelona, a street sweeper died during a recent heatwave, and several others have suffered heatstroke. Labor unions are advocating for stricter regulations to protect the aging workforce from the effects of climate change, which is causing the world's fastest warming.

Protests have taken place in Barcelona, with hundreds of street cleaners and concerned citizens marching to honor the deceased street sweeper. Workers shared that the extreme heat has made their jobs unbearable, with conditions worsening each year.

Extreme heat has led to a significant number of excess deaths in Spain during the summer months. Climate change is a major factor in these extreme weather events, impacting the country significantly.

Barcelona's City Hall has implemented new rules for street cleaning companies, including providing breathable uniforms, hats, and sunscreen. Hourly water breaks and shade breaks are now required when temperatures reach a certain level, and work is suspended at higher temperatures. However, workers have reported that these changes haven't been fully implemented, and they face penalties for taking breaks.

In Greece, regulations for outdoor labor include mandatory breaks, and employers are advised to adjust shifts to avoid the midday sun. Heat-safety inspections are required during hotter months, but the largest labor union is pushing for year-round monitoring. European labor unions and the United Nations' International Labor Organization are also working towards a more coordinated international approach to address the impact of rising temperatures on workers.

In Athens, grill cooks like Thomas Siamandas face challenging conditions, working near souvlaki burners. They take precautions such as breaks, hydration, and using fans to stay cool.

In Rome, tour guides like Massimo De Filippis face the heat while sharing history with tourists. The heat can be dangerous, especially in the Roman Forum, where there is little shade. Tourists often suffer from dehydration. Tour guides have requested earlier opening times for the Colosseum and Forum to avoid the worst heat, but the request has not been granted. The park is working on adjusting opening times and scheduling visits after sunset.