Farmworkers, Water Insecurity, and Heat‐Related Illnesses: The Case of Migrant Labor in Arizona

ABSTRACT This review highlights the need to approach water insecurity as a determinant of heat‐related occupational illnesses and, hence, as central to farmworker safety and dignity. In farmwork, access to safe, reliable water is essential for occupational activities, safety, and well‐being. Lack of clean drinking water can be deadly for farmworkers in remote, rural, and arid agricultural areas when combined with high ambient temperatures. Heat‐related illnesses (HRIs) have been widely studied in relation to exposure, symptom detection, and fatality prevention. However, the role of water insecurity in creating and mitigating HRI risks remains less understood. To better theorize water insecurity in creating occupational risk under extreme heat conditions in farmwork and similar occupations for vulnerable groups, we examine the historical and contemporary experiences of Latino farmworkers (LFW) in the United States, including governing labor programs, protections, and working conditions related to water insecurity and HRI. We then review HRIs and their symptoms, definitions of water insecurity, and the limited literature on farmworker water insecurity. Integrating these strands, we focus on migrant and seasonal LFW in southern Arizona, where summer temperatures often exceed 115°F. We also assess Arizona heat exposure and water safety standards and how farmworkers confront intersecting structural and situational stressors—including water insecurity—that undermine occupational safety and well‐being, with attention to female farmworkers. Throughout, we explore, when possible, the limited research on the connections between HRI and water insecurity. Finally, we identify key research gaps and potential applications to mitigate heat‐related risks among farmworkers and other vulnerable workers. This article is categorized under: Engineering Water > Water, Health, and Sanitation. Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change. Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness.