heat@work: Understanding the risks for heat-related accidents for solution oriented prevention in Switzerland

Background

Switzerland faces a greater temperature increase than the global average, making heat one of the most significant public health threats. Heat episodes have consistently been associated with premature mortality, increased emergency hospital admissions, and declines in cognitive performance and sleep quality. Some studies also indicated that heat increases the risk of unintentional fatal and non-fatal injuries in occupational settings. However, data on this issue remain limited, particularly in high-income countries such as Switzerland. This hinders the development of effective prevention and adaptation strategies.

Aims

This project aims at obtaining a comprehensive understanding of occupational injuries in relation to heat and climate change. Specific aims are 1) to assess short-term effects of heat on work-related accidents, and 2) to investigate factors contributing to accidents by examining heat risk perception, key risk factors and current prevention strategies. This will enhance the understanding of the risks associated with heat-related accidents, and will support the development and implementation of acceptable, targeted prevention measures.

Methods

For aim 1, temperature-health associations and vulnerable groups will be explored using a large dataset on occupational accident claims and daily meteorological data using novel statistical methods accounting for non-linear and delayed effects of temperature. It will be explored which work settings are most affected by heat and which individual characteristics increase workers’ vulnerability to heat-related accidents. For aim 2, focus group interviews will be conducted among employers in critical work settings to understand accident risks and co-create acceptable adaptation measures.

Expected results and impacts

The project will identify work settings and workers most vulnerable to occupational heat stress and provide evidence-based temperature thresholds for regulation to prevent heat related injuries. Overall, the study will produce novel and timely scientific evidence to increase resilience to climate change, which is one of the greatest threats to public health.