Risk Factors for Reaching Core Body Temperature Thresholds in Florida Agricultural Workers

Background: There is a compelling need to identify agricultural workers at risk for heat related illness (HRI). Methods: Data from Florida agricultural workers (N = 221) were collected over 3 summer workdays (2015 to 2017) to examine risk factors for exceeding NIOSH-recommended core temperature (Tc) thresholds (38 degrees C [Tc38] and 38.5 degrees C [Tc38.5]) using generalized linear mixed models. Results: On an average workday, 49% of participants exceeded Tc38 and 10% exceeded Tc38.5. On average, participants first exceeded both thresholds early in the day; the Tc38 threshold mid-morning (10:38 AM), and Tc38.5 about a half hour later (11:10 AM). Risk factors associated with exceeding Tc38 included years working in US agriculture, body mass index, time performing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, increasing heat index, and field crop work. Conclusions: The high prevalence of core temperatures exceeding recommended limits emphasizes the serious need for mandated HRI prevention programs for outdoor workers.

Automated summary

The study revealed a significant proportion of agricultural workers exceed recommended core temperature thresholds during work, highlighting the urgent need for mandated programs to prevent heat-related illnesses among outdoor workers.