Portwest Construction Magazine

HEAT Global heat statistics indicate a steady annual rise of 1 degree in Earth’s temperature, reaching record highs in 2023.

THE EFFECTS OF HEAT EXPOSURE Physical Psychological Heat stress Decline in mental performance Heat stroke Decline in focus Heat rash Reduced visual perception Heat exhaustion Mental fatigue Heat cramps Delayed responsiveness Heat edema Anxiety Hypertension Impaired mental ability Chronic kidney disease Anger Respiratory problems Frustration Cardiovascular diseases Confusion Physical fatigue Depression Dizziness Increased sweating

Have you ever glanced at your phone to check the temperature? Well, construction sites endure significantly higher temperatures, exceeding the atmospheric conditions. The average temperature disparity at a construction site, compared to the surrounding atmospheric temperature, can vary, typically ranging around 10°C to 15°C higher. This fluctuation depends on factors like the type of construction activity, location, and local climate conditions. Heat stress is a condition that arises when the body struggles with the challenge of effectively regulating internal temperature. This is often triggered by a combination of factors, including physical exertion, high environmental temperatures, and elevated humidity levels, which collectively overwhelm the body’s natural mechanisms for dispersing heat. Heat stress poses a significant challenge in the construction industry. Construction workers are anticipated to be more vulnerable to these risks due to the heat generated by physically demanding tasks in hot and humid work environments. This heightened vulnerability underscores the importance of implementing proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of workers and mitigate the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures.

New Spanish Legislation Spain has introduced a new legislation banning outdoor work during periods of extreme heat to protect workers’ health and well-being. The law will be adjusted to forbid outdoor work during red or orange alerts issued by the state weather agency, AEMET. This initiative is a response to the increasing influence of climate change, acknowledging the tangible impact of rising temperatures on people.