Australia is no stranger to high temperatures, heatwaves, and harsh summer conditions —
making extreme heat one of the most serious occupational hazards for outdoor workers, particularly those in the construction industry. As climate change drives hotter, longer summers and more frequent heat extremes, workers on building sites are increasingly exposed to conditions that can threaten their health, safety, and wellbeing.
Heat-related illness is one of the most immediate dangers of working in extreme heat. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur when the body is unable to regulate its temperature effectively. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps, confusion, and collapse. In Australia, temperatures regularly exceed 35°C during summer, significantly increasing the risk for construction workers performing physically demanding tasks outdoors. Between 2001 and 2013, at least 13 work-related fatalities in Australia were directly attributed to extreme heat exposure, with most occurring in outdoor industries such as construction.
Heatwaves are Australia’s deadliest natural hazard. Between 2016 and 2019, more than 1,000 heatwave-related deaths were recorded nationwide. While these figures include the general population, they highlight the severe health risks faced by outdoor workers who are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods without adequate cooling. Dehydration is another major risk for construction workers. Physical labour in hot conditions causes heavy sweating, leading to rapid fluid and electrolyte loss. Even mild dehydration can impair concentration, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Severe dehydration can place strain on the kidneys and cardiovascular system and may result in long-term health issues.
Extreme heat also increases the risk of workplace accidents. Fatigue and reduced alertness can lead to errors such as incorrect use of tools, falls from heights, and failure to follow safety procedures. Sweaty hands can reduce grip strength, increasing the risk of dropping tools or losing control of machinery. Metal, concrete, and machinery surfaces can become dangerously hot, causing burns upon contact.
Australia’s high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels add another layer of risk. Construction workers are exposed to some of the highest UV levels in the world, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Prolonged UV exposure significantly raises the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Thousands of skin cancer cases each year are linked to occupational sun exposure.
Personal protective equipment, while essential for safety, can worsen heat stress. Hard hats, high-visibility clothing, gloves, and steel-capped boots can trap heat and restrict airflow, making it harder for the body to cool down. Combined with Australia’s hot climate, this increases the likelihood of heat stress and fatigue.
Extreme heat presents serious and growing dangers for construction workers in Australia. Heat-related illness, dehydration, increased accident risk, UV exposure, and challenging site conditions all contribute to a hazardous working environment. As temperatures continue to rise, it is critical that employers and workers recognise these risks and implement effective heat management strategies to protect lives and maintain safe construction sites.
