European labor unions demand stronger workplace heat protection

The Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) used the Heat Action Day on 11 June to call for effective heat protection in indoor workplaces. It highlighted the rapid increase in days above 30 °C, the uneven burden on low‑income workers, and the need for mandatory heat‑protection plans that match those already required for outdoor work. The union announced a new online survey to assess heat stress across sectors and urged the government to extend the recent heat‑protection ordinance to indoor settings.

In Germany, the statutory accident insurance organisation (DGUV) issued guidance on recognising and treating heat‑related illness at work. It listed warning signs such as pale, cold skin, high pulse, muscle cramps and headaches, and recommended immediate measures like cooling, fluid intake and, if necessary, calling emergency services. The advice emphasises preventive steps – cooler rooms, regular drinking breaks and shade for outdoor tasks – to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke during the national heat‑action campaign.

Both pieces underscore growing occupational health concerns linked to climate change and call for coordinated preventive action across workplaces in Austria and Germany.