Assessment of Outdoor Workers Perception Working in Extreme Hot Climate

Abstract

This paper present an overview of the impact of elevated temperature and extreme heat on the safety and wellbeing of outdoor workers in Jizan, Saudi Arabia. Extreme heat exposure, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), task type undertaken, work location, and access to shade and cold water were identified to have direct impact on the workers’ personal levels of heat exposure and thermal discomfort. Considerable number of the participants expressed heat exposure at work as major concern to their health, safety and productivity. The study revealed that workers more susceptible to heat induced ailments were overlooking the severe consequences of heat exposure and lacked proper awareness. In addition, the findings suggest the need to strengthen outdoor workers adaptation strategy through refresher training, and use of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE).