Workplace temperature regulation is a critical aspect of occupational health and safety, yet India lacks clear and enforceable guidelines on this issue. With industrial workplaces experiencing temperatures of 40°C to 45°C, heat stress has become a major concern for worker productivity, safety, and well-being.
Unlike developed nations, India does not mandate specific temperature standards for workplaces. The Workmen Regulations Act, 1923, mentions ceiling fans and exhaust fans but fails to address modern workplace cooling solutions. This regulatory gap leaves millions of workers exposed to extreme temperatures, affecting productivity and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
This article explores the urgent need for policy changes, the impact of heat stress on Indian workers, and the measures other countries have taken to ensure safer working conditions.
Studies, including research conducted by IIM Ahmedabad, reveal that temperatures above 24°C negatively affect worker productivity and accuracy. When temperatures rise to 38°C or higher, productivity losses can reach 62%, while errors increase dramatically.
A study by NASA also confirms that as workplace temperatures rise:
Many industries, such as textiles, steel, manufacturing, and construction, expose workers to extreme heat. Studies indicate that heat stress leads to:
A 2016 study found that 87% of industrial workers reported health issues due to heat exposure, with nearly half experiencing productivity declines.
Unregulated workplace temperatures contribute to higher absenteeism rates and frequent accidents. Heat stress can impair judgment and increase fatigue, leading to injuries and lower workplace morale.
Industries without cooling regulations face higher attrition rates, as workers seek employment in more comfortable environments.
Several countries have already implemented strict policies to regulate workplace temperatures:
Despite these advancements, India has no mandatory workplace temperature standards. The Workmen Regulations Act, 1923, remains outdated, failing to recognize the needs of modern industrial environments.
India experiences extreme heat in industrial sectors. Unregulated temperatures reduce productivity, increase health risks, and raise absenteeism rates.
Research suggests that the ideal workplace temperature is between 20°C to 24°C. Productivity and accuracy decline significantly beyond 26°C.
Employers should:
Workers exposed to high temperatures face:
The absence of workplace temperature regulations in India is a serious occupational hazard. Studies show that excessive heat reduces productivity, increases absenteeism, and raises accident risks. While developed countries have enacted strict temperature controls, India’s outdated policies fail to protect workers.
Implementing mandatory cooling solutions, legal temperature limits, and employer incentives can significantly improve worker safety and industrial productivity. The time for policy changes is now—India must act to ensure a safer, more efficient workforce.