Impact Analysis of Heat on Physical and Mental Health of Construction Workforce
Sanjgna Karthick, Sharareh Kermanshachi, Apurva Pamidimukkala
Abstract
More than one-third of all occupational deaths are heat-related, and it is probable that many more non-fatal injuries occur from overexposure to heat but are not reported. Prolonged exposure to excessive heat results in construction workers suffering from a wide range of physical and mental health issues that can lower their productivity and cause an increased number of accidents. To investigate how heat impacts their physical and mental health, a survey was developed and distributed through an online platform to construction workers who work in various sectors, including transportation. The 100 responses received revealed that excessive heat affects workers both mentally (difficulty concentrating, irritableness, and frequent mood swings) and physically (fatigue, level of hydration, and kidney disease). Perspiration also plays a role in how a worker is impacted by the heat, as higher blood sugar levels and hypertension are more common among workers who perspire less. Breaks, continuous hydration, sufficient cooling facilities, and acclimatization of workers are some of the factors that can reduce heat-related injuries and accidents on construction sites.