Optimizing Construction Productivity Through Climate-Specific Heat Stress Management

Abstract

This research investigates the combined impact of heat stress and fatigue on construction worker productivity in two climatically distinct regions: a humid coastal area and a dry inland region. Using Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) as a measure of heat stress and incorporating working hours to account for fatigue, the research employs Monte Carlo simulations to model productivity variations across different work shift configurations and environmental conditions. The research focuses on two high-intensity construction tasks, with baseline productivities established through field observations.

Simulation results reveal significant differences in optimal work strategies between the two regions, considering both heat stress and cumulative fatigue effects. In the humid coastal region, shifts starting between 12:00 AM and 4:00 AM showed the highest productivity, with the most effective work ban period from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. In contrast, the dry climate allowed for a wider window of productive hours, with the current 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM ban proving most effective. The research also explored the impact of breaks, indoor versus outdoor work, and various shift lengths on productivity, taking into account how fatigue accumulates under different environmental conditions.

Model validation against field data demonstrated high accuracy, with mean productivity differences of -4.00% for Jubail and 1.19% for Qassim. The findings highlight the need for climate-specific work strategies and policies that address both heat stress and fatigue to optimize construction productivity while ensuring worker safety. The research provides valuable insights for industry practitioners and policymakers, suggesting that tailored approaches to managing both environmental stress and worker fatigue can significantly improve productivity and well-being in challenging climatic conditions.