Work

Humidity and work-related accidents

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Analyzing almost 2.3 million work-related injuries in Italy, we estimate that higher humidity levels significantly increase the number of workplace accidents. Using dew point temperature to capture the moisture content of the atmosphere, our results confirm that a 1 °C increase in the dew point temperature raises the number of accidents by 0.7%. Allowing for non-linear effects of humidity, we uncover a U-shaped relationship highlighting that both low and high humidity levels are associated with a higher number of accidents relative to intermediate conditions.

Source: Economics Letters

DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2026.112992

Authors: Nicolò Barbieri, Edoardo Santoni, Margherita Scarlato

Institutions: University of Ferrara, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Roma Tre University

Language: English

Topic: Occupational Health and Safety Research

Subfield: Radiological and Ultrasound Technology

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,030