Thermal comfort for contractors and construction workers on the jobsite:

What is meant by thermal comfort?

To have "thermal comfort" means that a person wearing a normal amount of clothing feels neither too cold nor too warm. Thermal comfort is important both for one's well-being and for productivity. It can be achieved only when the air temperature, humidity and air movement are within the specified range often referred to as the "comfort zone". Circulation fans as well as contractor cooling fans can help to create a more comfortable environment increasing productivity levels and decreasing heat stress related injuries.

Where air movement is limited or absent and when relative humidity can be kept at about 50%, the ambient temperature becomes the most critical factor for maintaining thermal comfort. Unfortunately, however, temperature preferences vary greatly among individuals and there is no one temperature that can satisfy everyone. Nevertheless, it is fair to say that an jobsite which is too warm makes its occupants feel tired and listless.

Maintaining constant thermal conditions at a jobsite is important for the contractors well-being. Even minor deviation from comfort may be stressful and affect performance and safety. Workers already under stress are less tolerant of uncomfortable conditions.

What temperature should the jobsite be?

A general recommendation is that the temperature be held in the range of 21-23°C (69-73°F). In summertime when outdoor temperatures are higher it is advisable to keep air-conditioned jobsites slightly warmer to minimize the temperature discrepancy between indoors and outdoors. Where air-conditioning is absent cooling and circulation fans can help to control temperatures for the workers.