Malta has further strengthened its position as one of the leading countries in protecting workers from the risks posed by climate change during an international seminar held in Palermo. Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Employment Jonathan Attard presented the Maltese model as an example of good practice in the field of occupational health and safety.
In a presentation delivered to representatives from several countries, Minister Attard explained how Malta was among the first countries to recognize the need to address climate change also from the perspective of workers and occupational health and safety.
“While in many countries these challenges are still being discussed, Malta has already implemented a comprehensive framework that includes a new OHSA law after more than 20 years, specific administrative instruments on heat stress and extreme weather conditions, awareness campaigns, free training, and proactive enforcement. This framework is protecting workers in practice and strengthening workplace resilience in the face of climate-related challenges,” Minister Attard explained.
Minister Attard emphasized that the Maltese experience is built on an integrated model that combines scientific evidence, consultation with social partners, legislation, and administrative instruments, together with awareness campaigns, continuous training, and effective enforcement.
“This approach has enabled Malta not only to anticipate many of the discussions currently taking place at the international level, but also to establish a flexible mechanism capable of responding quickly to emerging risks related to climate change,” added Minister Attard.
Particular attention was given during the presentation to the construction sector, where workers are among those most exposed to extreme heat, direct sunlight, and physically demanding working conditions. The measures introduced through an Administrative Instrument that came into force in 2025 were outlined, including the provision of adequate drinking water, shaded areas, sun protection, and rest spaces, as well as additional measures during periods of extreme heat, particularly when temperatures exceed 40°C.
Another Administrative Instrument, which entered into force this year, was also presented. It introduces preparedness, response, and recovery measures during severe weather conditions, including the suspension of outdoor work, work on rooftops, and work on scaffolding during severe storm warnings in order to safeguard workers’ health and safety.
Minister Attard also noted that Malta is continuing to strengthen its approach to workplace health through the integration of psychological well-being into the occupational health and safety framework, recognizing the impact that heat and extreme conditions can have on concentration, decision-making, and the overall well-being of workers.
He concluded by stating that extreme heat is no longer merely a seasonal challenge, but a challenge for workplaces, public health, and climate adaptation policy. “For this reason, Malta chose to act early, with concrete measures that place the protection of workers at the centre of national policy.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA), Dr Josianne Cutajar, stated “Malta’s participation in Palermo confirmed the growing recognition of the work being carried out in this field and strengthened our country’s reputation as a jurisdiction that not only responds to new challenges, but leads by example through concrete, preventive, and effective action. The fact that Malta is already implementing legislative, administrative, educational, and enforcement measures in this area demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that worker protection remains at the centre of national policy.”
The Chairman of the OHSA Board, Pierre Fava, said that Minister Attard’s presentation confirms how advanced Malta’s position is with regard to climate change and occupational health and safety.
Also present at the seminar were Gorg Zahra, Assistant Secretary of the GWU Government and Public Entities Section, and Anthony Casaru, representative of the Health and Safety Confederation For.U.M.
Photos: MIPE
