Investments to reduce heat stress in Bangladesh garment factories could be commercially viable and recover their costs within four years, according to research by Cornell University’s Global Labor Institute.
The study examined six months of temperature readings at eight factories in Dhaka. Researchers found that heat stress erased an average 4.1% of annual revenue at the factories, with workers in ironing and finishing sections among those most exposed to extreme heat.
Measures such as reflective paint, roof insulation and improved airflow ventilation were identified as practical cooling interventions. The researchers also urged global apparel brands to help suppliers carry adaptation costs, including through pricing arrangements.
As extreme heat becomes more frequent, the findings underline a growing link between worker health, productivity and the competitiveness of Bangladesh’s export-oriented apparel sector.
Source: Reuters and research by Cornell University’s Global Labor Institute. Image: file photo.