Industrial air conditioning has become a major necessity to guarantee working conditions in environments where the maximum temperature is above 27ºC, which is regulated by law.

Heat is an environmental factor that can have a significant impact on industrial environments. In many industries, workers face high temperatures on a daily basis, which can pose risks to their health and well-being, as well as challenging productivity. In this article, we will explore the effects of heat in industrial environments and the importance of implementing appropriate protective measures.

The impact of heat on health:

When workers are exposed to high temperatures, their health can be at risk. Excessive heat can cause a range of problems, from general malaise to serious illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening if not treated properly.

Heat exhaustion is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature due to prolonged exposure to heat. Symptoms include weakness, fatigue, dizziness and nausea. Heat stroke, on the other hand, is a more serious medical emergency that can result in brain damage, seizures and even death. It is crucial that employers are aware of these risks and take steps to prevent them.

Factors that increase the risk of heat:

Several factors can increase the risk of heat in industrial settings. Direct exposure to the sun, lack of adequate ventilation, high humidity, and the use of equipment and machinery that generate additional heat are just a few examples. In addition, certain jobs require the use of protective clothing or safety equipment that can make it difficult to regulate body temperature.

The impact on productivity:

In addition to health risks, heat can also have a significant impact on worker productivity. When temperatures are extremely high, it is common for employees to feel tired, fatigued and less motivated. This can lead to a decrease in concentration, performance and the quality of work performed. Ultimately, a heat-affected workforce can lead to economic losses for companies. In fact, there are numerous studies that quantify the impact they can cause, NASA itself published in its CR-1205-1 report that when internal plant temperatures exceed 29°C, production drops by 18% and loss of accuracy increases by up to 40%.