Citation

Anna M, Bugajska J, Grażyna B, Anna D, Krzemińska S, Łężak K, Makowski K. Int. J. Occup. Safety Ergonomics 2018; 24(1): 1-13.

Affiliation

Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB) , Poland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/10803548.2017.1335971

PMID

28589786

Abstract

Mine rescuers' heat load under the same physical effort load (25% of the maximal oxygen uptake), with the use of three types of breathing apparatuses, in newly-developed heat-removing underwear and outerwear, was assessed under typical work conditions of mine rescuers, under milder and harsher ambient conditions of 32°C and 38°C, respectively, both at relative humidity of 85% and air velocity of 1.0 m/s. It was demonstrated that expending physical effort at the same load while using different kinds of breathing apparatus had resulted in a similar heat load. Under both milder and harsher ambient conditions, both heat accumulation and sweating intensity were greater than the average limit value recommended by hygienic standards, which indicates that the use of breathing apparatus significantly hinders heat exchange with the environment. The developed clothing for mine rescuers was highly rated, and considered by most people to be better than that currently used.

Language: en

Keywords

breathing apparatuses; heat load; mine rescuers; protective clothing; ventilated underwear