Quantifying the Impact of High-Temperature Exposure on Physical Fatigue in Construction Workers

The construction industry is one of the most hazardous sectors worldwide, characterized by dangerous working conditions, particularly in extreme environments such as high temperatures, which increase the prevalence of heat-related illnesses. These illnesses can severely impact workers’ health and safety, increasing their susceptibility to construction accidents. However, the effects of high temperatures on the physical fatigue of construction workers remain unclear. This exploratory study assesses the perceived rate of exertion experienced (RPE) of five construction workers performing labor tasks on a construction site. It aimed to quantify the increase in physical fatigue during a work shift and its escalation under different temperatures. Additionally, it compared workers’ perceived exertion with physiological responses, such as core body temperature (CBT), an indicator of heat strain. Three field studies were conducted during the summer in southeastern United States at temperatures of 29°C, 31°C, and 33°C. Data collection synchronized objective measurements using wearable sensor devices to monitor CBT and subjective measurements through questionnaires to gather RPE. Results showed that high temperatures significantly increased perceived exertion, with an increase of 1.04 RPE when working from 29°C to 31°C and an increase of 0.99 RPE when working from 31°C to 33°C. This study also revealed an unusual relationship between CBT and RPE, 35% of the time, workers reported low exertion despite their high CBT. This highlights the need for real-time monitoring technologies to track physiological responses that can predict heat stress. This research develops robust methodologies that contribute to the body of knowledge by combining interdisciplinary analysis that extends beyond practical applications. It integrates insights from safety science, health sciences, and psychology to provide a comprehensive understanding of how environmental heat impacts construction workers. The merit of this research lies in strengthening expertise across these fields to address immediate safety concerns.