Training vs. Reality: The Challenges of Preventing Heat-Related Illness in Migrant Farmworkers
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Background: Heat‑Related Illness (HRI) is a major occupational hazard for migrant farmworkers, who are 35 times more likely to die from HRI than workers in other industries. Although HRI training aims to improve prevention knowledge, its effect on actual HRI outcomes is unclear. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science identified studies evaluating HRI training and reporting HRI prevalence or related symptoms. Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Results: HRI training did not reduce HRI prevalence or provide protective effects. Training increased reporting of workplace injuries and concern about HRI. Despite high training uptake—over 90% in some cohorts—knowledge retention remained low; in one study, only 14.2% of trained workers identified key heat‑safety practices. Dehydration and other symptoms often worsened during shifts. Conclusion: Training alone increases awareness but is insufficient without structural support. Improving HRI outcomes requires holistic interventions, including provider‑led outreach, administrative reforms, and engineering controls that make heat‑safe behaviors feasible.
Author: Homami, Sonya
Institution: Rowan University
Language: English
Topic: Agriculture and Farm Safety
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7160473339