Southern Europe is gripped by a brutal heatwave as the continent moves deeper into the summer season, writes Ekathimerini. Working outdoors under the scorching sun is becoming an exhausting, sometimes deadly challenge. In homes and offices, air conditioning is a lifesaver, but on the streets, the heat can be fatal.
A street sweeper died in Barcelona in late June during extreme temperatures. Since then, unions say 12 more cleaners have suffered heatstroke. This has sparked protests and calls for stricter rules to protect workers, especially as Europe’s heatwaves become increasingly extreme – the fastest-warming continent.
Barcelona protest: "Extreme heat is workplace violence"
Hundreds of street cleaners and citizens protested in Barcelona last week in memory of Monse Aguilar, a 51-year-old worker who died while working in record temperatures. "I have been doing this job for 23 years and every year the heat is worse", said Antonia Rodríguez, her colleague. "Something has to be done."
The Carlos III Health Institute reported that extreme heat caused more than 1,000 deaths in Spain in June and July alone. "Climate change plays a crucial role", said Diana Gomez, head of the institute.
Barcelona city hall has already issued new rules requiring cleaning companies to provide breathable uniforms, hats, sunscreen and breaks in temperatures above 34°C. At 40°C – work must stop. But protesters say the measures are not being respected and workers are being penalized for taking breaks.
Greece and Italy also under pressure
In Greece, there are regulations for mandatory breaks when working outdoors and recommendations for changing shifts during the hottest hours. The country's largest union – GSEE – is pushing for constant monitoring of conditions. The UN's International Labour Organization has also called for a global coordinated approach to tackling the heat risk.
In Athens, grill chef Thomas Siamandas says the 38-degree heat is a test even in the shade: "It's tough, but we're taking precautions - breaks, hydration and fans. You have to adapt."
Dangers in the heart of Rome too
Massimo De Filippis, a tour guide at the Colosseum and Forum in Rome, says tours between noon and 3:30 p.m. are dangerous for your health. "Honestly, it's tough. Many times it is really dangerous to be there at that time."
Francesca Dujmich, a representative of 300 Roman tour guides, says tourists often faint from the heat, and the Forum is a "pit without shade and wind". Unions have been demanding that the "Colosseum" Archaeological Park open earlier or run night tours - so far without success.