The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) published a new data bulletin with insights into heat injuries and illnesses among construction workers.

The report states that while construction workers make up only 7% of the workforce, they account for more than one-third of occupational heat-related deaths in the U.S. Additionally, heat also increases the risk of injuries from safety hazards, such as working at heights, and it can trigger or worse existing health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.

Citing information from Scientific American, the CPWR also states that heat-related injuries (HRI) are likely higher than estimates claim, due to the underreporting/undercounting of HRIs. Furthermore, research from Nature theorizes that chronic dehydration contributes to the development of chronic diseases.

Utilizing data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the CPWR estimates that from 2021-2022, there were 620 construction workers with heat-related nonfatal injuries that resulted in days aways from work, with a rate of 0.4 per 10,000 FTEs. Furthermore, from 2012-2023, the number of heat-related fatal injuries among all workers increased 77.4%. Overall, the rate of HRIs in construction workers was nearly four times higher than other industries.

Heat-related incidents continue to make news, as the past decade has ranked amongst the warmest on record. Heat-related incidents can lead to costly claims, lost workdays, and long-term health consequences. Staying informed on emerging research helps stakeholders to address risks and implement effective prevention strategies that protect workers while reducing workers’ comp costs.