Heat Effects Assessment Tool

What is the Heat Effects Assessment Tool

This ClimateCHIP HEAT tool estimates the likely heat stress challenges that will occur in a selected location anywhere in the world, and in the future as a result of climate change. The heat data come from local measurements and climate models estimating heat levels in rectangular grid cells (0.5 x 0.5 geographic degrees).

One estimate shows the need for heat safety actions using the International Standard (ISO7243). It shows how much rest is needed each work hour to protect worker safety in the locality in recent times and in the future depending on the type of work carried out.

The other estimate indicates how much the labour output (productivity) may be reduced as a result of the local heat at these times.

Steps to take - Overview
  1. When you click on NEXT (below) you will see a screen with map and monthly heat data for recent period, mid-century and end of century. The map shows a default location. The heat data are based on internationally accepted estimates of the impact of currently progressing climate change.
  2. To find the location of special interest insert the name of a town in the location in “Search” box or move on the map to grid cell of interest.
  3. After moving to this grid cell, the graph shows monthly mean WBGT levels (workplace heat index) in the hottest parts of the day in this location.
  4. When you click on HEAT NEXT a screen with a table will appear with monthly WBGT data for the hottest parts of the days when working in the sun or in the shade (or indoors without air cooling systems) and monthly means of 24-hour daily average values. With these data the Tool can calculate safety limits and productivity loss.
  5. In further screens calculation results are presented including comparisons with safety guidelines for work in hot environments.
  6. Another screen shows safety actions needed to protect workers health and performance (productivity).
  7. A user-friendly guide to all aspects of the ClimateCHIP website is also available. You can make further more detailed analysis after learning about the processes in this website
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