The public service sector is experiencing a rising demand for emergency services, attributed to the increasing frequency of natural disasters, according to Rosalia Valeova, a technical officer at the Ministry of Employment. Speaking at a workshop focused on climate change capacity building and the Fiji Public Service Association’s strategic plan in Suva, Ms. Valeova highlighted how environmental issues primarily impact vulnerable workers.
She noted that public services are facing heightened needs for emergency responses due to the occurrence of natural disasters like wildfires, hurricanes, and floods. This surge results in more healthcare workers and NGO personnel being deployed to assist in affected areas during crises.
Ms. Valeova emphasized that providing safe and decent working conditions is contingent upon minimizing environmental hazards and ensuring ecological stability. She warned that poor water and air quality could lead to illnesses among first responders, while food contamination poses increased cancer risks. Additionally, she pointed out that extreme weather events, such as heat waves, also have adverse effects on outdoor workers.
The impact of climate change can lead to job displacements, which may necessitate public employment initiatives or retraining programs. Ms. Valeova underscored the importance of these climate-related issues on human well-being.
To enhance worker safety, she advocated for increased investment in health and safety training within the public services sector.
This article underscores the critical role of emergency responders in the face of climate-related challenges and highlights the need for proactive measures to safeguard their health and working conditions. It reminds us of the importance of community resilience in adapting to the growing threats of climate change. With proper training and resources, responders can be better prepared to face these realities, ultimately helping to protect vulnerable populations.
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