How could Technology Protect Outdoor Workers?
Summary
It lowers a worker’s ability to concentrate and leads to notable increases in workplace injuries, research suggests. By 2030, the global cost of lower labour productivity due to heat is estimated to reach £1.8 trillion per year: West Africa will be especially hard hit. Yet, for reasons including financial need, workplace pressure, and a lack of awareness of the health impacts of high temperatures, many people continue to work past their heat tolerance. Early adoption of these devices would be a win-win, according to Dr Runkle: boosting productivity and reducing injury “while ensuring the health and safety of an ageing workforce and eliminating the risk of heat strain”. Another aid could be wearable cooling technology, but such devices are mainly in the research and development phase, or limited in availability.
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