What health risks do brick workers face due to prolonged heat exposure?

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Brick Workers Face Significant Health Risks from Prolonged Heat Exposure

Brick workers are exposed to a range of serious health risks, including skin disorders, respiratory problems, and kidney disease, stemming from prolonged exposure to extreme heat conditions at traditional kilns. These kilns operate at temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius, and workers endure intense heat from both the kiln below and the scorching sun overhead, a situation often described as being trapped between fire and heat. This arduous environment, exacerbated by climate change-induced hotter summers, contributes to a cycle of debt, poor health, and continued hazardous work, as extended rest breaks are not feasible due to the continuous operational demands of the kilns.
Skin Disorders, Respiratory Issues, and Kidney Disease Identified

Health experts highlight that the relentless heat exposure at traditional brick kilns makes workers particularly susceptible to a triad of serious health conditions. These include various skin disorders, which can arise from direct heat stress and friction, alongside respiratory problems likely exacerbated by dust and emissions from the kilns. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures is a known risk factor for kidney disease, a severe ailment that can develop from chronic dehydration and heat stress.
Working Conditions Amplify Heat Stress

The operational nature of traditional brick kilns creates an environment of intense and unavoidable heat stress for the workforce. Workers are positioned directly above the kilns, which burn at over 1,000 degrees Celsius, while simultaneously being exposed to the high ambient temperatures of the sun. This dual source of extreme heat, described by labourers as being "trapped between fire below and heat above," intensifies the physical toll of their labour.
Climate Change Worsens Existing Dangers

The ongoing impacts of climate change are significantly amplifying the already hazardous working conditions faced by brickmakers. As global temperatures rise and summers become hotter, the extreme heat experienced at the kilns becomes more severe and prolonged. This exacerbation of heat stress poses a greater threat to the health and well-being of workers, who are often compelled to continue working despite the deteriorating conditions due to financial pressures and debt cycles.
Continuous Operation Prevents Adequate Rest

The operational requirements of traditional brick kilns make it practically impossible for workers to take extended rest breaks, even during periods of extreme heat. Supervisors at these facilities indicate that the kilns must be maintained at stable, high temperatures for continuous operation, irrespective of external weather conditions. This necessitates that workers remain on site and engaged in their tasks, foregoing the necessary recovery time that could mitigate the severe health impacts of prolonged heat exposure.

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What health risks do brick workers face due to prolonged heat exposure?

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