Identifying workers at risk of exposure to climate-related health hazards using the Outdoor Occupational Exposure Matrix: A characterization of the Massachusetts workforce

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to examine which workers are more likely to work outdoors, and therefore at risk of occupational exposure to climate-related health hazards. METHODS: We developed a matrix that assigns outdoor/indoor exposure levels to occupations. We used 2018-2022 American Community Survey data to estimate the number and percentage of Massachusetts workers who worked outdoors by select characteristics. RESULTS: An estimated 17.5% of workers (nearly 641,000) worked outdoors. The percentage was highest in the Construction industry (80.2%), higher among males than females (28.1% vs. 6.4%) and varied by race/ethnicity, with the highest percentage among American Indian/Alaska Native, non-Hispanic/non-Latino workers (29.2%). CONCLUSION: This matrix could be used for climate-related health research and practice. Understanding the numbers and characteristics of workers more likely to work outdoors can inform planning and equitable implementation of prevention efforts.