Outdoor workers, especially Traffic police in Bangladesh are often exposed to harsh environments, particularly in prolonged heat in duty as most of the time they work outside. This review analyzes various peer reviewed papers published between 2016 to 2025 focusing on heat stress, fatigue and other occupational challenges faced by outdoor workers. A narrative review approach is used to analyze physiological, psychological and other cognitive functions using metrics like Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) thresholds, risk ratios for health outcomes.
Key findings indicate that 50%-79% officers report dehydration, cramps, and excessive sweating due to excessive heat which lead to fatigue in 40–70% of cases. During heat wave, productivity losses rise up to 40%. Heat stress increases the risk of renal dysfunction and cardiovascular strain. Cognitive effects included reduce in work capacity, increase in errors. Various intervention methods such as scheduled rest breaks can reduce fatigue and core temperature.
The review underscores the need of coping mechanisms for traffic police such as hydration, scheduled breaks, protective gears, better policies in workplaces. Future studies should focus on long-term effects on their cognitive functions such as decision making and also longitudinal studies, gender specific interventions to enhance resilience in high-risk conditions.