Ice slurry helps construction workers feel cooler under hot weather: MOM pilot project

SINGAPORE – In July 2022, more than 200 construction workers were given specially concocted ice slurries – a refreshing drink to fight heat strain and exhaustion – during their breaks. 

While the frosty drink, nearly sugar-free and isotonic, was foreign to many of the workers in Yishun, it did the trick.

It helped to lower their core temperatures – or temperatures of the internal organs – as they did strenuous work under the relentless sun.

Those who drank the slurry had a lower risk of heat strain and said they felt cooler, better hydrated and more energetic, said Ms Adeline Ng, director of the Ministry of Manpower’s Workplace Safety and Health Institute (WSHI).

Heat strain is the response of the body to effects of a scorching environment or heat stress. Heat-related illnesses can cause injuries, loss of productivity and even death.

Construction workers are one of…