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Heat Stress Prevention in Construction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Risk Factors and Control Strategies
Mehdi Torbat Esfahani1, Ibukun Awolusi1, Yilmaz Hatipkarasulu1
1School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, and Construction Management, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
Summary
Construction workers face heat stress risks. This study identifies gaps in heat stress controls and confirms cooling vests are effective, recommending new strategies for worker safety in hot environments.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Environmental Science
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Construction workers in hot environments are susceptible to heat stress and heat-related illnesses (HRIs).
- Existing research on engineering and administrative controls for heat stress is fragmented, lacking a comprehensive overview of risk factors and control strategies.
- A need exists to identify knowledge gaps and rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of current heat stress interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive review of heat stress risk factors and control methods in construction.
- To identify gaps in current control strategies for underestimated risk factors.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing heat stress interventions and propose a safety management framework.
Main Methods:
- A mixed literature review methodology was employed, combining structured and systematic reviews.
- Scientometric analysis identified key research clusters and trends in heat stress research.
- Meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of specific control methods, such as cooling vests.
Main Results:
- Scientometric analysis revealed 11 research clusters, including environmental factors, administrative controls (work-rest schedules), and personal interventions (cooling vests).
- Cooling vests and work-rest schedules were identified as the most studied control methods.
- Meta-analysis demonstrated the significant effectiveness of cooling vests and anti-heat-stress uniforms in reducing core body temperature (medium effect size).
Conclusions:
- Cooling vests are an effective strategy for mitigating heat stress in construction workers.
- Gaps in control strategies for underestimated risk factors were identified, suggesting future research in sensor technologies, training, dynamic work-rest schedules, advanced PPE, and governmental initiatives.
- The study provides insights for developing a heat stress control framework within safety management systems for construction environments.
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