Significantly higher temperatures are expected in the federal state of Bremen in the coming years. The number of hot days is increasing, especially in the summer months, which has a negative impact on the health of the population. Employees in particularly exposed occupations can hardly escape the climatic conditions and have only limited influence on their working environment. Possible consequences include increased absenteeism due to heat-related illnesses and higher accident rates as a result of reduced concentration. For this reason, it is necessary to take action and to consider how employees can be protected from negative effects of heat and UV radiation.

The HibeBB project is developing effective and practical adaptation measures for heat and UV protection for particularly exposed occupational groups. At the same time, industry-specific information and communication concepts are being developed, which are being validated and adapted with the participation of the companies and organisations concerned. In addition, a strategy for the qualification of occupational health and safety professionals – in particular occupational safety specialists and medical officers – is being developed. Overall, the project contributes to improving occupational safety for employees in Bremen and Bremerhaven and increasing the resilience of local companies and organisations to climate change.

The results of the project are geared towards implementing the objectives of the Bremen.Bremerhaven Heat Action Plan and, at the same time, the climate adaptation strategy of the federal state of Bremen. With HibeBB, the Smart Mobility Institute and the Institute of Shipping Economics und Logistics are making an important contribution to ensuring that work remains safe and healthy even under the conditions of climate change.

Close cooperation with affected companies and organisations guarantees that the proposed measures and concepts are practical and feasible.