Heat, extreme weather, diseasesChamber of Employees proposes measures to strengthen worker protections in Luxembourg

On Tuesday, the Chamber of Employees (CSL) outlined a series of measures aimed at enhancing the protection of workers in Luxembourg. The CSL highlighted the need to address emerging challenges such as climate change, extreme weather conditions, and exposure to hazardous chemicals.

Addressing climate change: Heat and cold

The CSL warned that heatwaves are expected to intensify and become more frequent due to climate change, posing significant health risks to workers in sectors like construction, agriculture, and industry. To mitigate these risks, the CSL recalled recommendations from the Inspectorate of Labour and Mines (ITM), including providing workers with adequate water, shaded areas, and specially equipped workstations during extreme heat. The chamber also called for the establishment of temperature limits that would halt work activities in unsafe conditions and the recognition of heat-related illnesses as occupational diseases.

On the other hand, while Luxembourg is “rather spared” from extreme cold, the CSL reiterated ITM guidelines on minimum workplace temperatures:

• 20°C for office environments,
• 19°C for workplaces where tasks are primarily performed seated,
• 17°C for workplaces involving standing work, and
• 12°C for environments requiring heavy physical labour.

Addressing air pollution and chemical risks in the workplace

Luxembourg has identified several pollutants to combat the risks posed by exposure to carcinogenic or mutagenic substances, including asbestos, wood dust, and diesel exhaust fumes.

The CSL emphasised that when exposure to such substances cannot be avoided, employers must take all necessary measures to minimise it. This includes adhering to established limit values, using safer alternatives where possible, ensuring proper ventilation, and providing personal protective equipment. The CSL also called for “appropriate medical surveillance” of affected employees, suggesting that the frequency of such checks be clearly defined.

The CSL further advocated for the expansion of a European directive on chemical substances to include broader monitoring. Specific attention was given to cobalt and lithium, which are increasingly present in modern devices and pose exposure risks to workers in certain occupations.

Additionally, the CSL highlighted the need to address emerging diseases transmitted by parasites. It recommended that employers provide insect repellents and offer voluntary vaccination campaigns to protect workers.