Heat Wave Impact On Industry Productivity.pdf

- Title: Impact of heat waves on labour productivity - case study for industry
- Authors: Tjasa Pogacar et al.
- Affiliations: University of Ljubljana, Slovenia & Jozef Stefan Institute, Slovenia
- Objective: Investigate heat wave effects on worker well-being and productivity in a Slovenian manufacturing plant during summer 2016
- Methodology:
- Analyzed heat waves (1961-2015) using heat indices (e.g., HWMId) at multiple Slovenian meteorological stations
- Measured air temperature and relative humidity at 30 critical workplaces inside the plant and below the ceiling
- Collected daily ratings of perceived thermal comfort and well-being from workers
- Conducted interviews/questionnaires to assess workers' knowledge, habits, and actions during heat stress episodes
- Correlated heat stress with daily productivity
- Findings (preliminary): Heat waves are increasing in duration, intensity, and frequency; high temperatures impact worker health and productivity
- Funding: European Union Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation action (Project number 668786: Heat Shield)
- Acknowledgments: Profs. Lars Nybo, Andreas Flouris, and Tord Kjellstrom for their assistance