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Digital EditionIncreased Frequency of Heat Waves, Air Pollution Threaten Outdoor Workers
An estimated 1.6 billion people, over a quarter of the global population, worked outdoors in 2022. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves, coupled with deteriorating air quality, are making outdoor work increasingly perilous in many parts of the world, according to a recent Gallagher Spotlight report.
Heat waves are becoming more common, intense, and prolonged. In the U.S., their frequency has increased from an average of two heat waves per year during the 1960s to six per year during the 2010s and 2020s, the report noted.
Additionally, heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S., causing more fatalities annually than hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. From 1992 to 2022, a total of 986 workers across all industry sectors in the U.S. died from exposure to heat, according to data from the Environmental Protection Agency.
Some estimates claim as many as 2,000 worker fatalities in the U.S. each year are linked to heat, with up to 170,000 workers injured in heat stress-related accidents, according to the report.
In addition to rising temperatures, the growing frequency of heat waves feeds into the degradation of air quality as wildfires increase in both frequency and intensity, causing smoke particulates and respiratory issues.
“I am concerned about the impact of the recent wildfires on people’s health. I believe there must have been a significant number of people affected by the smoke from wildfires, not only in Canada but also in the U.S.,” said Steve Bowen, chief science officer at Gallagher Re. “The smoke from large fires can travel thousands of miles and affect people globally. It’s even been reported that soot from the Canadian fires reached parts of Europe.”
Challenges Created
Extreme heat is a major issue for outdoor workers in industries such as construction, agriculture, transportation, and energy. According to Swiss health insurer Suva, there is a 1% increase in workplace injuries for every increase of 1°C (34°F), with 7% more workplace accidents occurring when temperatures rise above 30°C (86°F). Accidents are more likely to occur when workers are operating under heat stress and handling complex machinery, causing property damage and business interruption, Gallagher noted.
Heat stress and air pollution can significantly reduce productivity by impairing workers’ physical and cognitive abilities. The cost of heat stress on the U.S. economy is estimated to be nearly $100 billion each year. Industries that are highly reliant on outdoor labor are particularly vulnerable.
In terms of which workers find themselves most vulnerable, older workers face higher risks from heat stress.
“Several studies have documented that the severity of losses, measured both by medical and indemnity cost, doubles once an employee reaches 55 or older,” says Ania Caruso, Casualty practice leader at Gallagher U.S. “The body just can’t recover in the same way, often due to the presence of chronic health conditions and increased risk of complications, so the same type of work-related injury that a 25-year-old employee might endure can result in a loss that is doubled or more when the employee is 55 or older.”
Solutions and Recommendations
As heat waves and air pollution become increasingly severe, businesses must invest in heat-resistant working environments and implementing comprehensive heat stress management programs, the report stated.
Regular hydration, scheduled rest breaks in shaded or cooled areas, and cooling stations should be provided to help employees regulate their body temperature. Workers should also be encouraged to wear clothing that is “breathable, light-colored and loose-fitting.” The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends a 7-14 day acclimatization period, gradually increasing workers’ time in hot conditions.
Investing in protective equipment can further reduce risks for outdoor workers. Items like cooling vests, breathable clothing, personal sun protection, specialized masks and respirators can make a significant difference in worker comfort and safety, according to Gallagher.
Monitoring air quality in real-time using sensors and mobile apps allows businesses to make timely decisions on adjusting work schedules or relocating employees to minimize exposure to harmful pollutants.
“Heat-related illnesses are preventable. We know this, and we know a company’s management must lead from the top for workplace health and safety to be taken seriously,” said Caruso.
Access the full report here. &
