Study of skin conductance and perceived discomfort of the hand/finger system under controlled atmospheric conditions

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of factors such as temperature, relative humidity and physical exertion on the skin perspiration/moisture levels and subjective perceived discomfort ratings. The skin perspiration/moisture was measured using skin conductance meter. Nine male participants performed three hours of experimental trials that routinely required the physical exertion of lateral pinching. The skin conductance increased significantly with the increase in the temperature, relative humidity and presence of physical exertion. For the trials with physical exertion, the skin conductance was higher than similar trials with no physical exertion. A significant interaction effect of temperature and exertion on perceived discomfort was also observed. The results of this study seem to indicate that factors such as insulation, water permeability and cooing ability of the occupational gloves should be given priority in addition to the safety.