Strategic planning to prevent heat stroke in civil engineering SME workers

Abstract

Objective: To define intervention strategies at the source, in the environment, and workers to prevent heatstroke among workers at a civil engineering SME, based on risk factors and strategic planning.

Method: A questionnaire was administered to four operational workers, inquiring about sociodemographic variables, working conditions, medical history, personal habits, and knowledge of the subject to define control measures. Strategic planning tools were used to review the organization’s capabilities.

Results: The findings revealed high sun exposure, insufficient preventive breaks, and a lack of adequate infrastructure for rest and hydration. Individual factors that increase vulnerability were identified, such as advanced age, high blood pressure, and caffeine intake. Despite having received prior training, all workers reported symptoms consistent with heatstroke. Deficiencies were evident in the provision of specialized PPE and occupational medical monitoring.

Conclusions: The study enabled the design of differentiated intervention strategies targeting the source, the environment, and the worker, aimed at reducing thermal risk. The implementation of a comprehensive plan is recommended, including reorganization of schedules, infrastructure improvements, acquisition of specialized PPE, environmental monitoring, strengthening of educational campaigns, and active medical surveillance. The feasibility of the actions must be assessed in light of the capabilities of the companies.