Tackling Occupational Heat Stress: Industrial Technology Institute’s Response to Global Warming

Author: H Kavindu Perera (Electro Technology Laboratory / Industrial Technology Institute)

At present, Sri Lanka is paying more attention than ever to global warming. This is due to the high temperatures in recent days, which have significantly impacted the daily activities of the general public. Common effects include minimizing daytime travel, avoiding sports during school breaks, increased drinking water consumption, and a rise in skin diseases.

In this context, factory workers are exposed to excessive heat due to both the external ambient temperature and the heat radiated from machinery and industrial processes. Many laborers face mental stress under these extreme
conditions. Research on occupational heat stroke is essential to understand its health effects and to develop appropriate interventions that protect employees' well-being while ensuring their productivity. Extensive research and testing on heat stress are conducted in Western countries, and we, at the Institute of Industrial Technology, are leading similar efforts in Sri Lanka by adhering to international standards and guidelines.

Utilizing our expertise, vast experience, and precision world-class equipment, we calculate the heat stress index by measuring ambient temperature, air temperature, humidity, wet bulb temperature, dew point, and other relevant parameters. Based on these findings, we are in a position to provide recommendations to alleviate workers' heat stress, enabling them to return to work in a more comfortable and safer environment.