Effect of occupational heat exposure on brick kiln workers in Eastern India

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the outcome of environmental heat and humidity on the health and productivity of brick kiln workers in eastern India, who are regularly confronted with high temperatures and humidity. Materials and methods: Both male and female workers were assessed for heat exposure impacts using the WBGT index and HOTHAPS questionnaire, and their productivity and working heart rates were also examined. Results: The results showed extremely high WBGT levels at midday, leading to early signs of heat stress such as sweating, headaches, rashes, fatigue, and heat exhaustion. Male brick moulders experienced productivity losses of 3.75% to 6.56% per 1°C rise in WBGT across the 1st to 5th hours of exposure, while female moulders saw losses of 5.55% to 6.48%. Higher temperatures also correlated with increased heart rates, indicating cardiovascular strain. Conclusion: The study underscored the differing impacts of heat on male and female workers, emphasizing the need for gender-specific interventions to mitigate occupational heat exposure.