Thousands of delivery riders in Italy are striking to demand better working conditions as a severe heatwave grips the country, with temperatures expected to reach 40C in some areas.
The strike, which began on Wednesday, involves riders working for companies like Glovo and Deliveroo in cities such as Milan, Bologna, and Florence, where they are calling for measures to protect their health and wages.
Heatwave Working Conditions
Italy is not alone in facing heat-related workplace issues, as research suggests 130 million European workers are exposed to heat stress annually, prompting unions to push for improved protections.
In response to the heatwave, Milan authorities have implemented measures to limit deliveries during the hottest part of the day, but unions argue that companies must do more to ensure riders’ health and financial well-being.
In other European countries, such as Spain and France, workers are also pushing for better heatwave protections, with some schools and workplaces closing or adjusting schedules due to extreme temperatures.
Impact and Reactions
The strike highlights the need for companies and governments to address the growing concern of heat-related workplace hazards, particularly in industries that involve outdoor work or physical labor.
As the heatwave continues to affect Europe, unions and labor officials are set to discuss the issue of social safety nets and worker protections, seeking solutions that balance the need for economic activity with the need to safeguard workers’ health.
