The U.S. has seen the hottest summer on record, and 2025 isn't likely to be any cooler. But are employers prepared for the
According to global consulting firm Mercer, 25% of employers nationwide have reported that their workers are feeling the impact of extreme heat. When looking at industries that involve working outdoors, like construction, that number jumps to 46%, with 41% of employers noticing an impact on business operations too. Exposure to extreme heat can cause anything from irritability and poor mental processing to heart attacks and strokes —
"There is a higher incidence of workplace accidents and injuries due to heat," says Tracy Watts, national leader for U.S. health policy at Mercer. "Workers are dealing with things like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat is even known to impact kidney function. Employers need to hit the pause button and be super thoughtful about the circumstances their workers face."
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Watts notes that just 5% of employers they surveyed had conducted a vulnerability assessment, identifying which aspects of their operations and worker populations are especially at risk as climate change further transforms the planet. In order for companies to be prepared for rising temperatures, they have to at least know how their current organization is being impacted, stresses Watt.
"A number of days of extreme heat in a row means people might start missing work; if a worker is not at work, they also may not be earning their pay," she says. "This is going to impact healthcare costs and productivity, so employers need to be thinking about this from all different angles."
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After employers assess their organization, they can start thinking about heat stress-management plans, continues Watts. Depending on the industry and standard working conditions, employers can establish precautions and policies that minimize the impact of heat on their workers. For example, office workers may be encouraged to work from home during heat waves, avoiding what could be a dangerous commute altogether. Employers should ensure office spaces have air-conditioning, effective ventilation and easy access to water.
For outdoor workers, strenuous activities should be avoided during heat waves or at least scheduled early in the morning. Workers should take constant breaks in shaded areas with fans and water, and the scheduling of their tasks or projects should realistically reflect the precautions they need to take for their safety.
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Watts encourages employers to consider what will make their workers comfortable. She points out that, like mental health, climate change isn't something employers can ignore if they want to build a lasting business.
"There's a widespread health impact climate change will have on workers," says Watts. "We all have to work together to figure out the best things we can do to make people more comfortable and to keep businesses and employees thriving."
