Construction Industry Leaders Unite to Study Heat's Impact on Worker Health

Author

Slice of Construction Team
August 20, 2024

Key Highlights:

  • Turner, Flatiron, and La Isla Network collaborate on a heat stress study.

  • 200 construction workers in the Midwest to participate in the research.

  • Hydration, shade, and rest emphasized as crucial heat mitigation measures.

Source (Direct)

Notable Quotes:

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"This past year we conducted a pilot study that confirmed that heat affects workers’ core temperature. The study confirmed the importance of hydrating upon awakening in the morning and continuing throughout the day regardless of work activity or the temperature."

Mónika Serrano, Resilience Program Manager at Turner Construction
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"We are honored to participate in this study because we believe it will improve the lives of our employees and the communities where we live and work."

Sven Stranzenbach, Senior Vice President of Risk Management & Sustainability at Flatiron Construction
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"We’re thrilled to support this study, which can provide insights and data that can be applied to improve processes and protocols on construction sites."

Lyndsey Christofer, Executive Vice President of the Construction Industry Practice at Chubb

Our Take:

This collaboration between major construction companies and leading insurance providers highlights a growing recognition of the severe impact of heat on worker health and safety. As climate change increases the frequency of extreme heat events, such research is critical in developing effective heat mitigation strategies. The study not only represents a commitment to the well-being of the construction workforce but also serves as a model for how industries can work together to address emerging health challenges in the workplace. The data generated will likely shape future policies and practices across the construction industry, ensuring that safety remains a top priority in increasingly challenging work environments.