Sri Lanka lost the equivalent of over 120,000 full-time jobs due to rising workplace heat stress in 2023, compared to the average year during the historical period from 1985 to 2014, according to a report by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

The report, titled Impacts of heat stress on jobs and productivity in Sri Lanka, revealed that rising temperatures also resulted in an estimated additional economic loss of US$ 6.5 billion in 2023, compared to the historical baseline.

According to the ILO, the estimated job losses were calculated based on working hours lost due to heat stress, with agriculture accounting for the largest share at 48%, followed by services at 22%, manufacturing at 13%, construction at 11%, and transport and trade at 6%.

The report further revealed that 35% of the estimated job losses occurred during the second quarter of the year, when Sri Lanka experiences some of its most intense heat conditions.

The ILO noted that Sri Lanka’s average temperature has increased by approximately 1°C since the 1960s, while rainfall patterns have become increasingly unpredictable.

Climate data covering the past three decades also indicate an accelerating warming trend, with extreme temperature events becoming more frequent and intense.

The report warned that the impact of rising heat stress on employment and productivity could worsen significantly in the coming decades.

By 2040, Sri Lanka could lose the equivalent of between 145,000 and 221,000 full-time jobs annually due to rising heat stress, depending on global greenhouse gas emissions.

By 2060, the estimated annual losses could increase to between 158,000 and 349,000 full-time equivalent jobs, with the highest-emissions scenario potentially reducing the country’s annual economic output by 15.2%, relative to the historical baseline.

The ILO highlighted that agriculture and construction workers are particularly vulnerable due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and physically demanding working conditions.

It recommended introducing regulated work-rest schedules, adequate hydration facilities, improved workplace ventilation, cooling measures and adjustments to working hours to protect workers and minimise productivity losses.

The report stressed the importance of implementing climate adaptation measures to safeguard Sri Lanka’s workforce and strengthen the country’s economic resilience against rising temperatures.

Full report : https://www.ilo.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/SriLanka_Factsheet.pdf