Beat the Heat:
Protecting health in a warming world

As temperatures rise, so do the risks to our health—especially for people working outdoors or attending big events like sports matches or festivals. That’s why the World Health Organization (WHO), together with FIFA, launched the Beat the Heat initiative under the Sport for Health programme.

This global effort helps protect workers, fans, and communities from extreme heat, air pollution, and harmful sun exposure. From construction sites to crowded stadiums, Beat the Heat provides practical tools, safety guidelines, and training so everyone—whether working or watching—can stay safe.

The initiative focuses on:

• Making workplaces safer during hot weather.

• Helping event organizers prepare for heatwaves and pollution.

• Strengthening health systems to respond to climate risks.

• Raising awareness and promoting stronger rules to protect public health.

With support from WHO experts in climate and health—and in collaboration with the World Meteorological Organization and International Labour Organization—Beat the Heat is helping communities and organizers take meaningful action.

Its goals align with the BreatheLife campaign, which brings together global partners to reduce air pollution’s impact on health and climate and raise awareness about the dangers of dirty air.

By working together, we can better manage the health risks of extreme heat and create safer environments for all.