Citation

Yoopat P, Toicharoen P, Glinsukon T, Vanwonterghem K, Louhevaara V. Int. J. Occup. Safety Ergonomics 2002; 8(1): 83-93.

Affiliation

School of Science, Rangsit University, Pathumtani, Thailand. pongjan@rangsit.rsu.ac.th

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

11895584

Abstract

This study consists of assessments of the thermal environment and physiological strain in tasks associated with airport, construction, and metal jobs. The number of male and female participants was 108. Environmental heat stress was evaluated with the WBGT index. Physiological strain was evaluated by the relative cardiovascular load (%CVL) based on the measurements of heart rate. Also the increase of body temperature, weight loss, and perceived discomfort were determinated. At work sites the assessments lasted for 2 to 4 hrs for each participant. The mean physiological strain exceeded the level of 30%CVL. Severe peaks (over 60% CVL) were observed in specific tasks being in agreement with perceived discomfort ratings. The increase of body temperature and weight loss in most cases remained within acceptable limits. For the most strenuous tasks, various ergonomic improvements were developed in consultation with workers and managers.

Language: en