This report is well worth the read, but I will try to summarize their key findings along with some observations of my own focusing on the heat side of things.
Key Findings
While its not surprising that their findings found that heat does have a negative impact on working time within a given work shift, the temperatures at which we begin to see negative impacts on working time or work time losses was unexpected. The temperature range at which heat begins to impact working time loss is much broader than originally thought.
I do believe that because this study used experienced and acclimated workers, it provided a much more realistic perspective of the impact of heat on working time loss. Being experienced and acclimated, the “test” subjects were better skilled than your average volunteer in dealing with work and working in the heat.
Some General Findings from the Research Study “The Impact of Workplace Heat and Cold on Work Time Loss”
The WELL functions and the WBGT and ambient temperature data revealed that the least work time loss is observed at 16C WBGT or 18C ambient temperature within the range tested. In these conditions the average person worked 7.4hrs in an 8hr shift.
However, when the WBGT is at 36C or 40C ambient temperature the work time loss hits 3.4hrs or nearly half the shift.
They were able to track the work time loss against each degree change in temperature. Very kewl!
One final conclusion that really caught my attention. While the study showed that work time loss is less extreme than originally thought (mainly due to evaluating experienced acclimated workers instead of volunteers), it is much more widespread, extending to thermal conditions that were previously thought to be unaffected. The findings found that work time loss does not just occur in very hot work places but also occurs in more temperate environments. In other words, the range of temperature that we see a work time loss occur is broader than originally thought, thereby impacting more people.
Possible Solutions (Not Part of the Study)
You guessed it. #Coolingvests and accessories specifically designed to combat the risks of heat fatigue and heat stress. #Coolingsolutions such as cooling vests made using active cooling technologies such as #KewlFabric 7101or KFS PCM technologies help the user to manage the impacts of heat.
Awareness of what all of the options available for helping workers manage the threat of heat fatigue and heat stress beyond rest, shade and water, so that they can maintain productivity by maximizing their working hours. This may sound like an ideal outcome for a big corporation, but just think about how many people work for themselves on their farms, or fishing boats or construction companies, where the work they do each day is for themselves and their families. Work time losses to them are a very serious concern.
How about a study like the one we are discussing that now looks at work time losses when solutions like cooling vests are used. Only we cant wait 8yrs!!
You can read the full study at JOEM
Opmerkingen