Heatwaves and Occupational Health: Emerging Risks and Adaptive Public Health Strategies under Climate Change—A Narrative Review

Heatwaves, intensified by climate change and urbanization, pose increasing threats to human health, with occupational populations facing disproportionate risks due to prolonged exposure and high metabolic demands. Existing evidence remains fragmented, particularly regarding the integration of acute and chronic health effects in workplace settings. This narrative review synthesizes current knowledge on occupational heat exposure, highlighting emerging risks such as cumulative physiological strain, heat-related chronic diseases, and mental health impacts. We identify key occupational-specific pathways that amplify vulnerability beyond that of the general population. Despite growing awareness, substantial gaps persist in the implementation of effective adaptation strategies, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where regulatory, economic, and structural barriers limit intervention uptake. To address these challenges, we emphasize the need for adaptive work–rest scheduling, dynamic early warning systems, and cross-sectoral collaboration to enhance occupational heat resilience under a changing climate.