High temperatures are returning, and with them comes increased risk for those most exposed to direct sunlight, particularly workers in the construction sector.
In response, the Union of Independent Trade Unions has called for the reinstatement of the Ministry of Health’s decision that, among other measures, restricted working hours and exempted certain categories of employees from work during periods of extreme heat.
Occupational safety expert Arian Ibishi considers extreme temperatures a serious threat to workers’ health and safety, while also emphasizing employers’ responsibilities toward their workforce.
“Providing sufficient drinking water must be a priority. Regular breaks in shaded or cooler areas should be ensured, and heavy physical work during the hottest periods of the day should be avoided,” said Ibishi.
Family physician Rushit Ismajli also highlighted the health effects of extreme heat, noting that workers in several professions could be affected.
“Those working in construction, agriculture, or even in enclosed environments such as kitchens may suffer due to inadequate cooling and the inability of the body to regulate temperature effectively. This can cause dizziness, nausea, and, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness,” Ismajli said.
In addition to workers directly exposed to sunlight, Ismajli pointed to other vulnerable groups that may experience health complications.
“We usually talk about the most at-risk groups, such as children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses, especially hypertension. However, construction workers remain among the most vulnerable because they spend prolonged periods in high temperatures,” he added.
During the previous two years, the Ministry of Health introduced temporary protective measures, primarily in July, including a ban on outdoor work between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Under the ministry’s decision, pregnant women were exempted from work, while working hours for individuals with chronic health conditions were reduced.
The Ministry stated that, so far, it has not received any recommendations from the National Institute of Public Health regarding the implementation of similar measures this year.
Meanwhile, extreme temperatures have already affected several European countries, where heat-related fatalities have also been reported.
