Heat Stress among Dock Workers: Prevalence and Factors Associated with it Working in Port Area in South India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: Heat stress is a significant occupational health hazard worldwide, particularly in tropical regions where dock workers are exposed to high temperatures and humidity for extended periods. Dock workers are essential to the global economy, handling cargo and goods in ports and terminals, but their work environment poses significant health risks, including heat stress. Aim: The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and severity of heat stress in the dock workers of Port by identifying the demographic, occupational, and environmental factors that contribute to heat stress and its impact on occupational health and safety. Study Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among dock workers in working in Dock area of Port from Andhra Pradesh, South India. Materials and Methods: The sample size was 382 dock workers. Data were collected using a predesigned semi-structured questionnaire to gather information on past experiences and factors associated with heat stress. The data were entered in MS Excel, and analysis was done using the SPSS 20.0 version. Results: The study revealed significant insights into the demographic and occupational factors out of which 76% workers experiencing heat stress symptoms, ranging from mild to severe, with dizziness or light-headedness being the most frequently reported symptoms. Sweating, fatigue, and thirst are also prevalent issues, with a significant proportion of workers reporting severe sweating (15.2%), high levels of fatigue (21.2%), and intense thirst (19.6%). The workforce is predominantly older, with a large majority (57.6%) aged between 51 and 60 years. Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of heat stress among Dock workers (76%). These findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions, such as cooling, hydration, and occupational health policies, to mitigate heat-related risks and enhance worker safety.