Clothing and thermal environments: Field studies on industrial work in cool conditions

Abstract

Thermal environmental factors, heart rate, skin temperatures and thermal sensation votes were recorded in 19 workers in different types of cool environment industries. 45 workers from the same workplaces completed questionnaires. Transient thermal conditions were prevalent. After exercise chill, progressive cooling of the body during the working day, and cooling of hands and feet were general problems. Local cooling of certain body areas was found to be a trade-specific problem. Commonly used work clothing was insufficient for thermal comfort. Proposals for a more suitable choice of work clothing are given.