Time to take arms against sea of troubles

Imagine arriving at work only to find that the roads are flooded, your facility is partially submerged, and the once-reliable infrastructure is now corroded and unstable. This isn’t a scene from a disaster movie – unfortunately, it’s a growing reality for industries operating in coastal regions. Sea levels have risen by approximately 21–24 cm (8–9 inches) since 1880, with nearly 4 inches (10 cm) of that increase occurring in just the last 30 years (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [IPCC], 2023). The World Bank warns that by 2050, coastal flooding could cause annual damages of over $1 trillion globally, with small island states and coastal industries at the forefront of this crisis (World Bank, 2023).

For businesses in the Caribbean and other coastal areas, the implications of rising sea levels extend far beyond property damage. From structural failures and hazardous material spills to increased health risks and disrupted supply chains, the occupational safety and health (OSH) challenges are mounting. Organisations must act now for the safety and sustainability of their operations and workforce.

Understanding the risks

Rising sea levels bring a combination of threats, including coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion, and increased flooding (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [IPCC], 2022). These hazards create significant challenges for industries such as oil and gas, shipping, fishing, tourism and manufacturing, where operations rely heavily on proximity to the ocean.

One of the most immediate dangers is the structural integrity of facilities. Prolonged exposure to saltwater can accelerate corrosion of metal structures, weaken foundations, and compromise the safety of buildings, docks and storage tanks (United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction [UNDRR], 2021). Without regular assessments and reinforcement, this degradation can lead to catastrophic failures, posing risks to workers and the surrounding environment.

Another critical issue is the disruption of transportation and logistics. Flooded roads, submerged fuel terminals and damaged ports can interrupt supply chains, delaying critical deliveries and stranding employees (World Meteorological Organization [WMO], 2023). In coastal industrial zones, evacuation routes may become inaccessible, leaving workers vulnerable in emergencies.

Beyond infrastructure, rising sea levels contribute to heightened exposure to hazardous substances. Floodwaters can carry industrial pollutants, fuel spills, and biohazards, increasing the risk of contamination (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021). Inadequate containment and spill response measures can lead to long-term environmental damage and severe health consequences for workers and nearby communities.

Health and safety implications

The occupational health risks associated with rising sea levels extend beyond immediate physical dangers. Increased humidity and stagnant floodwaters create breeding grounds for mould, bacteria and vector-borne diseases (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023).

Psychological stress is another overlooked consequence. Workers in flood-prone areas often experience anxiety over job security, workplace safety and the potential for displacement (International Labour Organization [ILO], 2022). Uncertainty surrounding the future of coastal industries can lead to chronic stress, impacting both mental health and productivity.

Building resilience

To safeguard workers and ensure business continuity, companies operating in coastal areas must integrate climate resilience into their occupational safety and health (OSH) strategies. To do this, they must focus on a top-five series of key actions:

1. Conduct vulnerability assessments

Regular risk assessments should evaluate structural integrity, emergency preparedness and potential exposure to flooding. Mapping out flood zones and identifying critical infrastructure that may require elevation, or reinforcement, is essential for long-term resilience (IPCC, 2022).

2. Strengthen emergency response plans

Companies must develop and routinely test emergency action plans specific to rising sea levels. This includes ensuring that evacuation routes remain accessible, implementing early warning systems, and training employees on flood response procedures (UNDRR, 2021). Employers should also consider alternative work arrangements, such as remote operations, during extreme weather events.

3. Improve infrastructure and site design

Investing in resilient infrastructure is essential. Elevated platforms, seawalls, and water-resistant materials can help protect facilities from saltwater damage (WMO, 2023). Additionally, adopting nature-based solutions, such as mangrove restoration or permeable pavements, can provide natural flood defences while supporting biodiversity.

4. Enhance PPE and health monitoring

Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be adapted to address emerging hazards. Waterproof and chemical-resistant gear, as well as respiratory protection for air quality hazards, should be made readily available (CDC, 2021). Regular health screenings can also help detect early signs of illness linked to flooding and poor air quality.

5. Implement climate-conscious training

Workers must be trained on the evolving risks associated with climate change. Safety training should incorporate climate adaptation strategies, spill response procedures, and mental health awareness programs to address the emotional toll of working in high-risk coastal areas (ILO, 2022).

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Climate Effects on Health: Occupational Risks in Flood-Prone Areas. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov
2. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2022). Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability. Retrieved from www.ipcc.ch
3. International Labour Organization (ILO). (2022). Adapting Workplaces to Climate Change: Guidelines for Occupational Safety and Health Practitioners. Retrieved from www.ilo.org
4. United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). (2021). Building Climate Resilience in Coastal Industries. Retrieved from www.undrr.org
5. World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Climate Change and Occupational Health Risks. Retrieved from www.who.int
6. World Meteorological Organization (WMO). (2023). State of the Global Climate 2023. Retrieved from www.wmo.int