Prevalence of heat-related illnesses among adult brick kiln workers in rural south India: a cross-sectional study

Background: Heat-related illnesses (HRIs) pose a major occupational health challenge, particularly among workers engaged in strenuous labor in hot environments. Rural India’s fire clay brick industry exposes workers to extreme temperatures, increasing their risk of heat stress and related complications. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of HRIs and identify associated risk factors among brick kiln workers in rural India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 123 adult workers from three fire clay brick kilns in Andhra Pradesh, India. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from the high occupational temperature health and productivity suppression (HOTHAPS) tool and additional items assessing workplace exposures. Information on socio-demographics, occupational conditions, and HRI symptoms was collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0, with associations tested using chi-square and other appropriate tests (p<0.05). Results: The overall prevalence of HRIs (excluding heavy sweating) was 80.49%. Significant risk factors included job type, prolonged direct heat exposure, high workload, inadequate hydration, and absence of shaded rest areas. Conclusions: HRIs are highly prevalent among fire clay brick workers in rural India. Improved work conditions, hydration access, shaded areas, and heat safety education are urgently needed to reduce risk and enhance worker well-being.