Malaysia Construction Worker Perception On Heat Stress And Its Impact On Work Performance

Abstract

Global climate change has gradually increased Malaysia average temperature. This situation increases the risk of heat stress for Malaysian construction workers who mostly work under the sun. Thus, this study aims to examine Malaysian construction worker’s perception towards heat stress at construction site and its impact on work performance. A perception survey through Google Form was distributed to 53 construction workers. Participants that are selected for conducting this research have age range of 31 years to 40 years old, have one to three years of working experience and have knowledge of heat stress. Descriptive analysis results indicate respondents experience heat stress at construction site. The air temperature and radiant temperature was perceived as hot. The respondent also stated its uncomfortable to touch any surface area at the workplace and the warm environment make respondent throat feels dry and sweat profusely. However, the respondent does not perceive any negative implication of heat stress towards work performance. There was no symptom of heavy breathing while working; respondent feel motivated to work daily, don’t think they need longer break and even eager to work overtime. Nonetheless, respondents state they do experience joint pain and difficulties in finishing daily task occasionally.