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CIB Conferences

Abstract

Construction activities especially in hot tropical climate exposes workers to health and safety risks associated with extreme hot weather conditions. Considering the magnitude of health and safety risks associated with extreme heat exposure and the prevailing safety culture and attitude of among workers that impede adaptation to safe work practices under extreme heat conditions, it is imperative that stakeholders pay serious attention to workplace climate change impact to help improve adaptation and safety measures of construction workers. This study provides empirical evidence on safety awareness and practices among Nigerian construction workers, often exposed to extreme hot weather conditions. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit data from 576 respondents using random sampling technique and the data analyzed using descriptive statistical tools. The study revealed low level of awareness of health risks associated with extreme heat exposure. Furthermore, 57.3% of the respondents raised concerns regarding the non-availability of potable water source on sites, which impacts on their level of fluid intake while working in extreme heat conditions. The need for a better workplace safety and health management related to heat stress impact among construction workers is need alongside emphasis on safety awareness and mitigation strategies against extreme heat condition.

Keywords

heat stress, dehydration, construction workers, climate change, risk assessment

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