🗞️70% of the world's workforce is at risk for health problems because of climate change.

International Workers' Memorial Day is observed today, and it brings together the global trade union movement each year.

The effect of climate change on the health of workers is this year's global theme. 70% of the world's workforce is being impacted by climate change, according to a report released this week by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).The report highlights the connection between climate change and a number of worker health conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure, and mental health issues.

In a statement , The Australian Council of Trade Union (ACTU) said Workers are on the frontline of the climate crisis, be it working outdoors in extreme heat, or those battling floods and extreme weather conditions, the climate crisis is having a detrimental effect on workers' health.

The statement added ACTU grieve for those lost at work or as a result of their employment, and we battle valiantly for the living.

ACTU Assistant Secretary Liam O’Brien said Unions will continue to fight for better and safer protections for workers. This International Workers’ Memorial Day we also mourn those who have lost their lives at work or due to work related diseases.

Nothing is free like a free press. Give now to help sustain independent journalism in your community.

It's evident from recent events that there has never been a better moment to support local news. Donate now to help sustain independent reporting.

“This year our movement acknowledges the efforts of unions to win world leading protections for workers against deadly silica dust including the banning of engineered stone which has been responsible for as many as 1 in 4 stonemasons being diagnosed with this incurable disease.”

The fight for safety at work must continue until all workers are safe.

We also take this time to acknowledge those that have lost their lives in the course of their work”, He said.

Every year 200 workers are killed at work with more than 5,000 dying from work related diseases.

In July this year Australia will be the first place in the world to ban deadly engineered stone and implement some of the toughest workplace silica rules. These changes will save thousands of lives and is a credit to the union members that fought for these world leading changes.

Got a News Tip?

Contact our editor via Proton Mail encrypted, X Direct Message, LinkedIn, or email. You can securely message him on Signal by using his username, Miko Santos.

More on The Evening Post AU

  • Get Evening Post Wrap - for nighly bite size news around Australia and the world.

  • Podwires Daily - for providing news about audio trends and podcasts.

  • Podwires Asia - for reporting on podcasting and audio trends in South East Asia

  • There’s a Glitch - updated tech news and scam and fraud trends

  • The Freeman Chronicle Podcast - features expert interviews on current political and social issues in Australia and worldwide.

  • That Podcast Exchange - This podcast is an insightful conversation with people at the top of their game and deconstructs them to find the tools, tactics, and tricks to help you achieve your dream goal as Podcast Manager.