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Havenith G, Smallcombe JW, Hodder S, Jay O, Foster J. Comparing the efficacy of different climate indices for prediction of labor loss, body temperatures, and thermal perception in a wide variety of warm and hot climates. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2024; 137:312-328. [PMID: 38867664 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00613.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate which climate/heat indices perform best in predicting heat-induced loss of physical work capacity (PWCloss). Integrating data from earlier studies, data from 982 exposures (75 conditions) exercising at a fixed cardiovascular load of 130 beats·min-1, in varying temperatures (15-50°C), humidities (20-80%), solar radiation (0-800 W·m-2), wind (0.2-3.5 m·s-1), and two clothing levels, were used to model the predictive power of ambient temperature, universal thermal climate index (UTCI), wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), modified physiologically equivalent temperature (mPET), heat index, apparent temperature (AT), and wet bulb temperature (Twb) for the calculation of PWCloss, skin temperature (Tskin) and core-to-skin temperature gradient, and thermal perception (thermal sensation vote, TSV) in the heat. R2, RMSE, and Akaike information criterion were used indicating model performance. Indices not including wind/radiation in their calculation (Ta, heat index, AT, and Twb) struggled to provide consistent predictions across variables. For PWCloss and TSV, UTCI and WBGT had the highest predictive power. For Tskin, and core-to-skin temperature gradient, the physiological models UTCI and mPET worked best in seminude conditions, but clothed, AT, WBGT, and UTCI worked best. For all index predictions, Ta, vapor pressure, and Twb were shown to be the worst heat strain predictors. Although UTCI and WBGT had similar model performance using the full dataset, WBGT did not work appropriately in windy, hot-dry, conditions where WBGT predicted lower strain due to wind, whereas the empirical data, UTCI and mPET indicated that wind in fact increased the overall level of thermal strain. The findings of the current study highlight the advantages of using a physiological model-based index like UTCI when evaluating heat stress in dynamic thermal environments.NEW & NOTEWORTHY There is an urgent need to determine the optimal heat stress metric when forecasting the impact of heat stress on human performance, physiological stress, and perception. We analyzed a wealth of laboratory data, simulating heart rate (HR)-paced work with wide variations in air temperature, humidity, wind speed, solar radiation, and clothing. We conclude that the universal thermal climate index (UTCI) [followed by wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT)] is the optimal heat index to reliably predict reductions in performance, and elevations in physiological and perceptual stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - James W Smallcombe
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
- Heat and Health Research Incubator, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simon Hodder
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Ollie Jay
- Heat and Health Research Incubator, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Josh Foster
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Quartucci C, Wibowo R, Do V, Bose-O Reilly S, Nowak D, Weilnhammer V, Weinmann T, Rakete S. Assessment of subjective well-being of healthcare workers in response to heat and personal protective equipment under controlled conditions using a standardized protocol. J Occup Med Toxicol 2024; 19:16. [PMID: 38750499 PMCID: PMC11095016 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-024-00418-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to climate change, the increasing frequency of hot summer days and heat waves can result in occupational heat strain, especially in non-air-conditioned workplaces. Healthcare workers (HCW) engaged in patient care are particularly affected, as they are additionally exposed to physical stress. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can aggravate heat strain in HCW. This study aimed to examine the subjective well-being of HCW when exposed to heat and PPE under controlled conditions. METHODS This study was designed as a randomized crossover trial. Participants performed standardized healthcare tasks in a climatic chamber for approximately 3.5 h at different indoor temperatures (22 °C and 27 °C) and varied working conditions (with or without PPE). The effects on participants' subjective well-being, encompassing thermal, physiological and psychological stress were assessed using a customized questionnaire. RESULTS Heat had a greater effect than PPE on thermal, physical and psychological stress. Conversely, PPE had a greater effect on physical demand and effort. For the majority of outcomes, combined exposure to heat and PPE resulted in the highest perceived discomfort. Furthermore, the participants reported increased sweating and other discomforts when working at elevated temperatures or with PPE. CONCLUSIONS In this study, heat and PPE, but particularly the combination of both factors, were identified as unfavorable working environments. Although the trials were conducted in a controlled environment, the outcomes provide valuable information about the effect of heat and PPE on HCW in a real-life setting. Furthermore, the design used in this study can be beneficial in evaluating the effect of mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Quartucci
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Environmental Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Razan Wibowo
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Environmental Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Viet Do
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephan Bose-O Reilly
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Public Health, Medical Informatics and Technology, Health Services Research and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT - University for Health Sciences, Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - Dennis Nowak
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Veronika Weilnhammer
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Environmental Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Weinmann
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Rakete
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.
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O'Connor FK, Meade RD, Notley SR, Ioannou LG, Flouris AD, Kenny GP. Agreement between measured and self-reported physiological strain in males and females during simulated occupational heat stress. Am J Ind Med 2024; 67:466-473. [PMID: 38493300 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Monitoring physiological strain is recommended to safeguard workers during heat exposure, but is logistically challenging. The perceptual strain index (PeSI) is a subjective estimate thought to reflect the physiological strain index (PSI) that requires no physiological monitoring. However, sex is known to influence perceptions of heat stress, potentially limiting the utility of the PeSI. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to assess whether sex modifies the relationship between PeSI and PSI. METHODS Thirty-four adults (15 females) walked on a treadmill (moderate intensity; ~200 W/m2) for 180 min or until termination (volitional fatigue, rectal temperature ≥39.5°C) in 16°C, 24°C, 28°C, and 32°C wet-bulb globe temperatures. Rectal temperature and heart rate were recorded to calculate PSI (0-10 scale). Rating of perceived exertion and thermal sensation were recorded to calculate PeSI (0-10 scale). Relationships between PSI and PeSI were evaluated via linear mixed models. Mean bias (95% limits of agreement [LoA]) between PSI and PeSI was assessed via Bland-Altman analysis. Mean absolute error between measures was calculated by summing absolute errors between the PeSI and the PSI and dividing by the sample size. FINDINGS PSI increased with PeSI (p < 0.01) but the slope of this relation was not different between males and females (p = 0.83). Mean bias between PSI and PeSI was small (-0.4 points), but the 95% LoA (-3.5 to 2.7 points) and mean absolute error were wide (1.3 points). IMPACT Our findings indicate that sex does not appreciably impact the agreement between the PeSI and PSI during simulated occupational heat stress. The PeSI is not a suitable surrogate for the PSI in either male or female workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fergus K O'Connor
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert D Meade
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sean R Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leonidas G Ioannou
- Department of Automatics, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andreas D Flouris
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, Trikala, Greece
| | - Glen P Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Jahangiri H, Zamanian Z, Daneshmandi H, Seif M, Jamshidi H. Investigating the short-term effects of using full-body hospital personal protective equipment and changes in physical workload intensity on human physiological and cognitive performance. ERGONOMICS 2023; 66:1295-1309. [PMID: 36343173 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2145375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the short-term effects of using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and physical workload intensity on human physiological and cognitive performance among 21 males and 19 females. PPE1 consisted of a medical coverall and surgical mask, while PPE2 consisted of impermeable full-body coverall, shoe covers, latex gloves, N95 mask, and face shield. Objective assessments were heart rate, energy expenditure, core body temperature, clothing microclimate temperature and humidity, and cognitive performance were the continuous performance test and N-Back test. Subjective assessments included thermal sensation, perceived fatigue/skin wetness/clothing moisture. Using PPE2 and increased workload intensity significantly increased the values of all physiological parameters and the subjective ratings of fatigue, thermal sensation, skin wetness, and clothing moisture. Moreover, the participants' cognitive performance was not affected by the type of PPE.Practitioner summary: Healthcare workers are at the highest risk in the fight against pandemics. Therefore, these people are required to use personal protective equipment. Using this equipment may have difficulties. The results show physiological strain and higher subjective ratings associated with using full-body hospital PPE and increased physical workload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Jahangiri
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Zamanian
- Department of Ergonomics, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hadi Daneshmandi
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Seif
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Department of Epidemiology, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamid Jamshidi
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Kiarsi M, Amiresmaili M, Mahmoodi MR, Farahmandnia H, Nakhaee N, Zareiyan A, Aghababaeian H. Heat waves and adaptation: A global systematic review. J Therm Biol 2023; 116:103588. [PMID: 37499408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2023.103588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the increasing trend of global warming and extreme weather conditions, including heat waves and its effects on health, the present study was done to investigate adaptive behaviors of communities in the world for combating heat waves. METHOD ology: In this systematic review, out of 1529 results, 57 relevant and authoritative English papers on adaptation to heat waves hazard were extracted and evaluated using valid keywords from valid databases (PubMed, WOS, EMBASE, and Scopus). In addition, multiple screening steps were done and then, the selected papers were qualitatively assessed. Evaluation results were summarized using an Extraction Table. RESULTS In this paper, the adaptive behaviors for combating heat waves hazard were summarized into 11 categories: Education and awareness raising, Adaptation of critical infrastructure, Governments measures, Health-related measures, Application of early warning system, Protective behaviors in workplace, Physical condition, Adaptive individual behaviors, Design and architecture of the building, Green infrastructure (green cover), and Urban design. CONCLUSION The findings of this study showed that community actions have significant effects on adaptation to heat wave. Therefore, for reducing heat wave-related negative health effects and vulnerability, more attention should be paid to the above-mentioned actions for mitigation, preparation, and responding regarding heat waves. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021257747.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Kiarsi
- Department of Medical Emergencies, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran; Center for Climate Change and Health Research (CCCHR), Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran.
| | - Mohammadreza Amiresmaili
- Health in Disasters and Emergencies Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Reza Mahmoodi
- Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Public Health, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Hojjat Farahmandnia
- Health in Disasters and Emergencies Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Nouzar Nakhaee
- Health in Disasters and Emergencies Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Health Services Management Research Center, Institute of Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Armin Zareiyan
- Public Health Department, Health in Emergencies and Disasters Department, Nursing Faculty, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamidreza Aghababaeian
- Department of Medical Emergencies, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran; Center for Climate Change and Health Research (CCCHR), Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran.
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Ioannou LG, Testa DJ, Tsoutsoubi L, Mantzios K, Gkikas G, Agaliotis G, Nybo L, Babar Z, Flouris AD. Migrants from Low-Income Countries have Higher Heat-Health Risk Profiles Compared to Native Workers in Agriculture. J Immigr Minor Health 2023:10.1007/s10903-023-01493-2. [PMID: 37208495 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01493-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The present observational study was conducted to uncover potential differences in the risk of experiencing high occupational heat strain during agriculture work between migrants and their native coworkers, as well as to elucidate the factors that may contribute to such differences. The study took place over the period from 2016 through 2019 and involved monitoring 124 experienced and acclimatized individuals from high-income (HICs), upper-middle-income (UMICs), as well as lower-middle- and low-income (LMICs) countries. Baseline self-reported data for age, body stature, and body mass were collected at the start of the study. Second-by-second video recordings throughout the work shifts were captured using a video camera and were used to estimate workers' clothing insulation, covered body surface area, and body posture, as well as to calculate their walking speed, the amount of time they spent on different activities (and their intensity) and unplanned breaks throughout their work shifts. All information derived from the video data was used to calculate the physiological heat strain experienced by the workers. The core temperature of migrant workers from LMICs (37.81 ± 0.38 °C) and UMICs (37.71 ± 0.35 °C) was estimated to be significantly higher compared to the core temperature of native workers from HICs (37.60 ± 0.29 °C) (p < 0.001). Moreover, migrant workers from LMICs faced a 52% and 80% higher risk for experiencing core body temperature above the safety threshold of 38 °C compared to migrant workers from UMICs and native workers from HICs, respectively. Our findings show that migrant workers originating from LMICs experience higher levels of occupational heat strain, as compared to migrant workers from UMICs and native workers from HICs, because they take fewer unplanned breaks during work, they work at a higher intensity, they wear more clothing, and they have a smaller body size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, 42100, Trikala, Greece
| | - Davide J Testa
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, 42100, Trikala, Greece
| | - Lydia Tsoutsoubi
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, 42100, Trikala, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Mantzios
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, 42100, Trikala, Greece
| | - Giorgos Gkikas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, 42100, Trikala, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Agaliotis
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, 42100, Trikala, Greece
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Zahra Babar
- Center for International and Regional Studies, Georgetown University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Karies, 42100, Trikala, Greece.
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Taggart SM, Girard O, Landers GJ, Ecker UKH, Wallman KE. Seasonal influence on cognitive and psycho-physiological responses to a single 11-h day of work in outdoor mine industry workers. Temperature (Austin) 2023; 10:465-478. [PMID: 38130661 PMCID: PMC10732613 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2023.2208516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the seasonal effects that working outdoors had on various parameters in mining industry workers over the course of a work-shift. Workers (n = 27) were assessed in summer (33.3 ± 4.2°C, 38 ± 18% RH; n = 13, age = 46 ± 14 y, BMI = 29.1 ± 5.7 kg/m2) and winter (23.6 ± 5.1°C, 39 ± 20% RH; n = 14, age = 44 ± 12 y, BMI = 31.2 ± 4.1 kg/m2). Core temperature and heart-rate were measured continuously (analyzed at five time points), while perceptual measures, cognitive and manual dexterity performance were assessed at various times over an 11-h shift at the start of a 14-day swing. Hydration was assessed (urine specific gravity) pre- and post-shift. Working memory was impaired in summer compared to winter (-10%; p = 0.039), however did not change throughout the shift. Processing efficiency was significantly reduced at 12 pm (-12%; p = 0.005) and 5 pm (-21%; p < 0.001) compared to 9 am, irrespective of season (p > 0.05). Manual dexterity (dominant-hand) improved over the shift (+13%, p = 0.002), but was not different between seasons. Perceived fatigue had no main effect of season or shift. Core temperature, heart-rate, thermal sensation and rating of perceived exertion increased throughout the shift, with only core temperature and thermal sensation showing a seasonal effect (summer: +0.33°C, +18%, respectively; p < 0.002). Notably, 23% of workers in summer and 64% in winter started work significantly dehydrated, with 54% and 64% in summer and winter, respectively, finishing work with significant to serious dehydration. Impairment in working memory in summer combined with high levels of dehydration over the work-shift reinforces the need for workplace education on the importance of hydration and risk of occupation heat stress. Abbreviations: Core temperature: Tc; Fly-in fly-out: FIFO; Ratings of perceived exertion: RPE; Relative humidity: RH; Urinary specific gravity: USG; Wet bulb globe temperature: WBGT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M. Taggart
- School of Human Sciences (Sport Science, Exercise and Health), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Olivier Girard
- School of Human Sciences (Sport Science, Exercise and Health), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Grant J. Landers
- School of Human Sciences (Sport Science, Exercise and Health), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Ullrich K. H. Ecker
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Karen E. Wallman
- School of Human Sciences (Sport Science, Exercise and Health), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
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Zhao M, Huang X, Kjellstrom T, Lee JKW, Otto M, Zhang X, Romanello M, Zhang D, Cai W. Labour productivity and economic impacts of carbon mitigation: a modelling study and benefit-cost analysis. Lancet Planet Health 2022; 6:e941-e948. [PMID: 36495888 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00245-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the emerging carbon neutrality pledges from different countries, it is still unclear how much these pledges would cost and how the costs would compare with the economic benefits. Comparisons at the country level are important for tightening country-specific emissions trajectories to keep the temperature limit targets outlined in the Paris Agreement within reach. We aimed to systematically estimate avoided heat-related labour productivity losses against the costs of climate change mitigation at country and regional levels. METHODS In this modelling study, to address the above-mentioned research gaps, we first selected two representative climate change scenarios (Representative Concentration Pathway 6.0 [RCP6.0] scenario, a higher warming scenario representing limited mitigation pledges before the Paris Agreement with around 3°C warming by the end of this century; and RCP2.6 scenario, a lower warming scenario assuming global temperature rise is limited to 2°C) and estimated heat-related labour productivity loss using the exposure-response function at country and regional levels. By representing the direct heat-related labour productivity losses in a multiregional global computable general equilibrium model, we then did a benefit-cost analysis to quantify the economic benefits of avoided heat-related labour productivity losses as well as the estimated reduction in gross domestic product (GDP) related to carbon reduction. FINDINGS By 2100, the overall economic losses due to heat-related labour productivity loss could range from about 1·5% of global GDP under the RCP6.0 scenario to about 0·1% of global GDP under the RCP2.6 scenario. The productivity losses will be highly concentrated in low-latitude regions, especially in southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East, implying the necessity of additional adaptation measures. By 2100, about 51·8% of global climate change mitigation costs could be offset by economic benefits from reduced labour productivity losses. Cumulatively, about 17·0% of climate change mitigation costs could be offset by the economic benefits between 2020 and 2100, when using a 2% social discounting rate. The costs and benefits of climate change mitigation will be distributed highly unevenly across regions due to their varying climate zones and economic structures. Regions with benefits from reduced productivity losses higher than mitigation costs are mainly low-latitude and tropical regions with lower income and lower emissions, such as southeast Asia, Brazil, and Mexico. More than half the climate change mitigation costs could be offset by the economic benefits by 2100 for the world's largest emitters, including the USA, China, the EU, and India. Low benefit-cost ratios are expected in economies that rely on fossil fuels, such as Canada, Russia, and the Middle East. INTERPRETATION Although pledging carbon neutrality implies radical changes to most economies, substantial health and economic gains can be achieved by reduced heat-related labour productivity loss, even without accounting for other benefits. The benefit-cost analysis in this study shows the potential for choosing more stringent climate change mitigation pathways in some regions. Regions with low benefit-cost ratios need to restructure their economies to reduce mitigation costs as well as losses from declined fossil fuel exports. FUNDING National Natural Science Foundation of China, Tsinghua-Toyota Joint Research Fund, the Wellcome Trust, Tsinghua University-China Three Gorges Corporation Joint Research Center for Climate Governance Mechanism and Green Low-carbon Transformation Strategy, the National Research Foundation, Prime Minister's Office, Singapore (Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise [CREATE] programme), and the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Coorperation Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengzhen Zhao
- Department of Earth System Science, Institute for Global Change Studies, Ministry of Education Ecological Field Station for East Asian Migratory Birds, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodan Huang
- Institute of Energy, Environment and Economy, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; Institute of Industrial Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection, China Center for Information Industry Development, Beijing, China
| | - Tord Kjellstrom
- Health and Environment International Trust, Mapua, New Zealand; Australian National University, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Jason Kai Wei Lee
- Human Potential Translational Research Programme, Department of Physiology, and Heat Resilience and Performance Centre, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; N.1 Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore
| | - Matthias Otto
- Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, Nelson, New Zealand
| | - Xiliang Zhang
- Institute of Energy, Environment and Economy, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Marina Romanello
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Da Zhang
- Institute of Energy, Environment and Economy, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Wenjia Cai
- Department of Earth System Science, Institute for Global Change Studies, Ministry of Education Ecological Field Station for East Asian Migratory Birds, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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Smallcombe JW, Foster J, Hodder SG, Jay O, Flouris AD, Havenith G. Quantifying the impact of heat on human physical work capacity; part IV: interactions between work duration and heat stress severity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2022; 66:2463-2476. [PMID: 36197554 PMCID: PMC9684271 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-022-02370-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
High workplace temperatures negatively impact physical work capacity (PWC). Although PWC loss models with heat based on 1-h exposures are available, it is unclear if further adjustments are required to accommodate repeated work/rest cycles over the course of a full work shift. Therefore, we examined the impact of heat stress exposure on human PWC during a simulated work shift consisting of six 1-h work-rest cycles. Nine healthy males completed six 50-min work bouts, separated by 10-min rest intervals and an extended lunch break, on four separate occasions: once in a cool environment (15 °C/50% RH) and in three different air temperature and relative humidity combinations (moderate, 35 °C/50% RH; hot, 40 °C/50% RH; and very hot, 40 °C/70%). To mimic moderate to heavy workload, work was performed on a treadmill at a fixed heart rate of 130 beats·min-1. During each work bout, PWC was quantified as the kilojoules expended above resting levels. Over the shift, work output per cycle decreased, even in the cool climate, with the biggest decrement after the lunch break and meal consumption. Expressing PWC relative to that achieved in the cool environment for the same work duration, there was an additional 5(± 4)%, 7(± 6)%, and 16(± 7)% decrease in PWC when work was performed across a full work shift for the moderate, hot, and very hot condition respectively, compared with 1-h projections. Empirical models to predict PWC based on the level of heat stress (Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature, Universal Thermal Climate Index, Psychrometric Wet-Bulb Temperature, Humidex, and Heat Index) and the number of work cycles performed are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Smallcombe
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, Leicestershire, UK
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Josh Foster
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, Leicestershire, UK
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Simon G Hodder
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Ollie Jay
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, Leicestershire, UK.
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Fisher JT, Ciuha U, Ioannou LG, Simpson LL, Possnig C, Lawley J, Mekjavic IB. Cardiovascular responses to orthostasis during a simulated 3-day heatwave. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19998. [PMID: 36411293 PMCID: PMC9678862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24216-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Global warming has caused an increase in the frequency, duration, and intensity of summer heatwaves (HWs). Prolonged exposure to hot environments and orthostasis may cause conflicting demands of thermoregulation and blood pressure regulation on the vasomotor system, potentially contributing to cardiovascular complications and occupational heat strain. This study assessed cardiovascular and skin blood flow (SkBF) responses to orthostasis before, during and after a 3-day simulated HW. Seven male participants maintained a standard work/rest schedule for nine consecutive days split into three 3-day parts; thermoneutral pre-HW (25.4 °C), simulated HW (35.4 °C), thermoneutral post-HW. Gastrointestinal (Tgi) and skin (Tsk) temperatures, cardiovascular responses, and SkBF were monitored during 10-min supine and 10-min 60° head-up tilt (HUT). SkBF, indexed using proximal-distal skin temperature gradient (∆TskP-D), was validated using Laser-Doppler Flowmetry (LDF). The HW significantly increased heart rate, cardiac output and SkBF of the leg in supine; HUT increased SkBF of the arm and leg, and significantly affected all cardiovascular variables besides cardiac output. Significant regional differences in SkBF presented between the arm and leg in all conditions; the arm displaying vasodilation throughout, while the leg vasoconstricted in non-HW before shifting to vasodilation in the HW. Additionally, ∆TskP-D strongly correlated with LDF (r = -.78, p < 0.001). Prolonged HW exposure and orthostasis, individually, elicited significant changes in cardiovascular and SkBF variables. Additionally, varying regional blood flow responses were observed, suggesting the upper and lower vasculature receives differing vasomotor control. Combined cardiovascular alterations and shifts towards vasodilation indicate an increased challenge to industrial workers during HWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason T. Fisher
- grid.445211.7Jozef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Ljubljana, Slovenia ,grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Urša Ciuha
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Leonidas G. Ioannou
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lydia L. Simpson
- grid.5771.40000 0001 2151 8122Division of Performance Physiology and Prevention, Department of Sports Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Carmen Possnig
- grid.5771.40000 0001 2151 8122Division of Performance Physiology and Prevention, Department of Sports Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Justin Lawley
- grid.5771.40000 0001 2151 8122Division of Performance Physiology and Prevention, Department of Sports Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria ,grid.488915.9Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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11
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Ferrari GN, Leal GCL, Thom de Souza RC, Galdamez EVC. Impact of climate change on occupational health and safety: A review of methodological approaches. Work 2022; 74:485-499. [PMID: 36314181 DOI: 10.3233/wor-211303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The working population is exposed daily to unavoidable climatic conditions due to their occupational settings. Effects of the weather such as rain, heat, and air pollution may increase the risk of diseases, injuries, accidents, and even death during labor. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to summarize the impacts of climate change on workers' health, safety and performance, identifying the risks, affected workplaces and the range of methodological approaches used to assess this problem. METHODS A thorough systematic mapping was conducted in seven scientific international databases: Emerald, IEEE Xplore, Science Direct, Scielo, Scopus, SpringerLink, and Web of Science. Three research questions guided the extraction process resulting in 170 articles regarding the impacts of climate change on occupational health and safety. RESULTS We found an accentuated trend in observational studies applying primary and secondary data collection. Many studies focused on the association between rising temperatures and occupational hazards, mainly in outdoor work settings such as agriculture. The variation of temperature was the most investigated impact of climate change. CONCLUSIONS We established a knowledge base on how to explore the impacts of climate change on workers' well-being and health. Researchers and policymakers benefit from this review, which explores the suitable methods found in the literature and highlights the most recurring risks and their consequences to occupational health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Neto Ferrari
- Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, Production Engineering Department, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
| | - Gislaine Camila Lapasini Leal
- Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, Production Engineering Department, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Edwin Vladimir Cardoza Galdamez
- Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, Production Engineering Department, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
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Koch M, Matzke I, Huhn S, Gunga HC, Maggioni MA, Munga S, Obor D, Sié A, Boudo V, Bunker A, Dambach P, Bärnighausen T, Barteit S. Wearables for Measuring Health Effects of Climate Change–Induced Weather Extremes: Scoping Review. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e39532. [PMID: 36083624 PMCID: PMC9508665 DOI: 10.2196/39532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Although climate change is one of the biggest global health threats, individual-level and short-term data on direct exposure and health impacts are still scarce. Wearable electronic devices (wearables) present a potential solution to this research gap. Wearables have become widely accepted in various areas of health research for ecological momentary assessment, and some studies have used wearables in the field of climate change and health. However, these studies vary in study design, demographics, and outcome variables, and existing research has not been mapped.
Objective
In this review, we aimed to map existing research on wearables used to detect direct health impacts and individual exposure during climate change–induced weather extremes, such as heat waves or wildfires.
Methods
We conducted a scoping review according to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) framework and systematically searched 6 databases (PubMed [MEDLINE], IEEE Xplore, CINAHL [EBSCOhost], WoS, Scopus, Ovid [MEDLINE], and Google Scholar). The search yielded 1871 results. Abstracts and full texts were screened by 2 reviewers (MK and IM) independently using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria comprised studies published since 2010 that used off-the-shelf wearables that were neither invasive nor obtrusive to the user in the setting of climate change–related weather extremes. Data were charted using a structured form, and the study outcomes were narratively synthesized.
Results
The review included 55,284 study participants using wearables in 53 studies. Most studies were conducted in upper–middle-income and high-income countries (50/53, 94%) in urban environments (25/53, 47%) or in a climatic chamber (19/53, 36%) and assessed the health effects of heat exposure (52/53, 98%). The majority reported adverse health effects of heat exposure on sleep, physical activity, and heart rate. The remaining studies assessed occupational heat stress or compared individual- and area-level heat exposure. In total, 26% (14/53) of studies determined that all examined wearables were valid and reliable for measuring health parameters during heat exposure when compared with standard methods.
Conclusions
Wearables have been used successfully in large-scale research to measure the health implications of climate change–related weather extremes. More research is needed in low-income countries and vulnerable populations with pre-existing conditions. In addition, further research could focus on the health impacts of other climate change–related conditions and the effectiveness of adaptation measures at the individual level to such weather extremes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Koch
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ina Matzke
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sophie Huhn
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hanns-Christian Gunga
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Physiology, Center for Space Medicine and Extreme Environment Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martina Anna Maggioni
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Physiology, Center for Space Medicine and Extreme Environment Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - David Obor
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Ali Sié
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Centre de Recherche en Santé, Nouna, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Aditi Bunker
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Peter Dambach
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Sandra Barteit
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Morrison SA. Moving in a hotter world: Maintaining adequate childhood fitness as a climate change countermeasure. Temperature (Austin) 2022; 10:179-197. [PMID: 37332309 PMCID: PMC10274554 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2022.2102375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Children cope with high temperatures differently than adults do, largely because of slight alterations in their body proportions and heat loss mechanisms compared to fully mature humans. Paradoxically, all current tools of assessing thermal strain have been developed on adults. As the Earth's warming continues to accelerate, children are set to bear the health risk brunt of rising global temperatures. Physical fitness has a direct impact on heat tolerance, yet children are less fit and more obese than ever before. Longitudinal research reveals that children have 30% lower aerobic fitness than their parents did at the same age; this deficit is greater than can be recovered by training alone. So, as the planet's climate and weather patterns become more extreme, children may become less capable of tolerating it. This comprehensive review provides an outline of child thermoregulation and assessment of thermal strain, before moving to summarize how aerobic fitness can modulate hyperthermia, heat tolerance, and behavioral thermoregulation in this under-researched population. The nature of child physical activity, physical fitness, and one's physical literacy journey as an interconnected paradigm for promoting climate change resilience is explored. Finally, future research foci are suggested to encourage continued exploration of this dynamic field, notable since more extreme, multifactorial environmental stressors are expected to continue challenging the physiological strain of the human population for the foreseeable future.
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Ioannou LG, Mantzios K, Tsoutsoubi L, Notley SR, Dinas PC, Brearley M, Epstein Y, Havenith G, Sawka MN, Bröde P, Mekjavic IB, Kenny GP, Bernard TE, Nybo L, Flouris AD. Indicators to assess physiological heat strain – Part 1: Systematic review. Temperature (Austin) 2022; 9:227-262. [PMID: 36211945 PMCID: PMC9542768 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2022.2037376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In a series of three companion papers published in this Journal, we identify and validate the available thermal stress indicators (TSIs). In this first paper of the series, we conducted a systematic review (registration: INPLASY202090088) to identify all TSIs and provide reliable information regarding their use (funded by EU Horizon 2020; HEAT-SHIELD). Eight databases (PubMed, Agricultural and Environmental Science Collection, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Russian Science Citation Index, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar) were searched from database inception to 15 April 2020. No restrictions on language or study design were applied. Of the 879 publications identified, 232 records were considered for further analysis. This search identified 340 instruments and indicators developed between 200 BC and 2019 AD. Of these, 153 are nomograms, instruments, and/or require detailed non-meteorological information, while 187 can be mathematically calculated utilizing only meteorological data. Of these meteorology-based TSIs, 127 were developed for people who are physically active, and 61 of those are eligible for use in occupational settings. Information regarding the equation, operating range, interpretation categories, required input data, as well as a free software to calculate all 187 meteorology-based TSIs is provided. The information presented in this systematic review should be adopted by those interested in performing on-site monitoring and/or big data analytics for climate services to ensure appropriate use of the meteorology-based TSIs. Studies two and three in this series of companion papers present guidance on the application and validation of these TSIs, to guide end users of these indicators for more effective use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G. Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Konstantinos Mantzios
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Lydia Tsoutsoubi
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Sean R. Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Petros C. Dinas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Matt Brearley
- National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Thermal Hyperformance, Pty Ltd, Takura, QLD, Australia
| | - Yoram Epstein
- Heller Institute of Medical Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design School, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Michael N. Sawka
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Peter Bröde
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo), Dortmund, Germany
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Glen P. Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Thomas E. Bernard
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B Downs Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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15
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The influence of rest break frequency and duration on physical performance and psychophysiological responses: a mining simulation study. Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:2087-2097. [PMID: 35727402 PMCID: PMC9381606 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-04979-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the influence of shorter, more frequent rest breaks during simulated work (outdoor mining) in the heat on physical performance and psychophysiological responses. Methods On separate days, thirteen males undertook two 225 min simulation trials in the afternoon (12.00–3.45 pm) including 180 min of treadmill walking at a constant rate of perceived exertion of 11 (or ‘light’) on the 6–20 Borg scale in a heat chamber (37 °C, 40% RH), interspersed with 45 min of rest breaks in an air-conditioned room (22 °C, 35% RH). Rest breaks in the current practice (CP) trial occurred at 1.00 and 2.30 pm (30 min and 15 min, respectively), while in the experimental (EXP) trial were at 1.00 (15 min), 1.45, 2.25 and 3.05 pm (10 min each). Results Total distance covered was not different (p = 0.086) between CP (12,858 ± 2207 m) and EXP (12,094 ± 2174 m). Heart rate, thermal sensation and thermal comfort were significantly higher at 120–180 min (all p < 0.05) in CP compared to EXP. Moderate- to large-effect sizes (Hedge’s g) between trials were also found at 120–180 min for core temperature (g = 0.50 and 0.99, respectively). No differences were found between trials for cognitive performance, perceived fatigue, urine specific gravity, or total water intake (p > 0.05). Conclusion Shorter, more frequent rest breaks have little impact on physical performance, thermal strain and exercise-related sensations. Current practices should remain in place until further studies can be conducted on an actual mine site during summer where outdoor workers perform their work duties.
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Ioannou LG, Foster J, Morris NB, Piil JF, Havenith G, Mekjavic IB, Kenny GP, Nybo L, Flouris AD. Occupational heat strain in outdoor workers: A comprehensive review and meta-analysis. Temperature (Austin) 2022; 9:67-102. [PMID: 35655665 PMCID: PMC9154804 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2022.2030634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The present comprehensive review (i) summarizes the current knowledge on the impacts of occupational heat stress on outdoor workers, (ii) provides a historical background on this issue, (iii) presents a meta-analysis of published data, (iv) explores inter-individual and intra-individual factors, (v) discusses the available heat mitigation strategies, (vi) estimates physical work capacity, labour productivity, and metabolic rate for the year 2030, and (vii) provides an overview of existing policy and legal frameworks on occupational heat exposure. Meta-analytic findings from 38 field studies that involved monitoring 2,409 outdoor workers across 41 jobs in 21 countries suggest that occupational heat stress increases the core (r = 0.44) and skin (r = 0.44) temperatures, as well as the heart rate (r = 0.38) and urine specific gravity (r = 0.13) of outdoor workers (all p < 0.05). Moreover, it diminishes the capacity of outdoor workers for manual labour (r = -0.82; p < 0.001) and is responsible for more than two thirds of the reduction in their metabolic rate. Importantly, our analysis shows that physical work capacity is projected to be highly affected by the ongoing anthropogenic global warming. Nevertheless, the metabolic rate and, therefore, labour productivity are projected to remain at levels higher than the workers' physical work capacity, indicating that people will continue to work more intensely than they should to meet their financial obligations for food and shelter. In this respect, complementary measures targeting self-pacing, hydration, work-rest regimes, ventilated garments, and mechanization can be adopted to protect outdoor workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G. Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Josh Foster
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Nathan B. Morris
- Department of Human Physiology & Nutrition, University of Colorado, Springs, Colorado, USA
| | - Jacob F. Piil
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design School, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Glen P. Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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17
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Ioannou LG, Tsoutsoubi L, Mantzios K, Vliora M, Nintou E, Piil JF, Notley SR, Dinas PC, Gourzoulidis GA, Havenith G, Brearley M, Mekjavic IB, Kenny GP, Nybo L, Flouris AD. Indicators to assess physiological heat strain – Part 3: Multi-country field evaluation and consensus recommendations. Temperature (Austin) 2022; 9:274-291. [PMID: 36249710 PMCID: PMC9559325 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2022.2044739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In a series of three companion papers published in this Journal, we identify and validate the available thermal stress indicators (TSIs). In this third paper, we conducted field experiments across nine countries to evaluate the efficacy of 61 meteorology-based TSIs for assessing the physiological strain experienced by individuals working in the heat. We monitored 372 experi-enced and acclimatized workers during 893 full work shifts. We continuously assessed core body temperature, mean skin temperature, and heart rate data together with pre/post urine specific gravity and color. The TSIs were evaluated against 17 published criteria covering physiological parameters, practicality, cost effectiveness, and health guidance issues. Simple meteorological parameters explained only a fraction of the variance in physiological heat strain (R2 = 0.016 to 0.427; p < 0.001), reflecting the importance of adopting more sophisticated TSIs. Nearly all TSIs correlated with mean skin temperature (98%), mean body temperature (97%), and heart rate (92%), while 66% of TSIs correlated with the magnitude of dehydration and 59% correlated with core body temperature (r = 0.031 to 0.602; p < 0.05). When evaluated against the 17 published criteria, the TSIs scored from 4.7 to 55.4% (max score = 100%). The indoor (55.4%) and outdoor (55.1%) Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (51.7%) scored higher compared to other TSIs (4.7 to 42.0%). Therefore, these three TSIs have the highest potential to assess the physiological strain experienced by individuals working in the heat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G. Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lydia Tsoutsoubi
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Mantzios
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Maria Vliora
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Eleni Nintou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Jacob F. Piil
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Petros C. Dinas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | | | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design School, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Matt Brearley
- National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Thermal Hyperformance, Pty Ltd, Takura, Qld, Australia
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Slovenia
| | - Glen P. Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Ioannou LG, Dinas PC, Notley SR, Gofa F, Gourzoulidis GA, Brearley M, Epstein Y, Havenith G, Sawka MN, Bröde P, Mekjavic IB, Kenny GP, Bernard TE, Nybo L, Flouris AD. Indicators to assess physiological heat strain – Part 2: Delphi exercise. Temperature (Austin) 2022; 9:263-273. [PMID: 36211947 PMCID: PMC9542877 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2022.2044738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In a series of three companion papers published in this Journal, we identify and validate the available thermal stress indicators (TSIs). In this second paper of the series, we identified the criteria to consider when adopting a TSI to protect individuals who work in the heat, and we weighed their relative importance using a Delphi exercise with 20 experts. Two Delphi iterations were adequate to reach consensus within the expert panel (Cronbach's α = 0.86) for a set of 17 criteria with varying weights that should be considered when adopting a TSI to protect individuals who work in the heat. These criteria considered physiological parameters such as core/skin/mean body temperature, heart rate, and hydration status, as well as practicality, cost effectiveness, and health guidance issues. The 17 criteria were distributed across three occupational health-and-safety pillars: (i) contribution to improving occupational health (55% of total importance), (ii) mitigation of worker physiological strain (35.5% of total importance), and (iii) cost-effectiveness (9.5% of total importance). Three criteria [(i) relationship of a TSI with core temperature, (ii) having categories indicating the level of heat stress experienced by workers, and (iii) using its heat stress categories to provide recommendations for occupational safety and health] were considered significantly more important when selecting a TSI for protecting individuals who work in the heat, accumulating 37.2 percentage points. These 17 criteria allow the validation and comparison of TSIs that presently exist as well as those that may be developed in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G. Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Petros C. Dinas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Sean R. Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Flora Gofa
- Hellenic National Meteorological Service, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Matt Brearley
- National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Thermal Hyperformance, Pty Ltd, Takura, Australia
| | - Yoram Epstein
- Heller Institute of Medical Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design School, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Michael N. Sawka
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Peter Bröde
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADO), Dortmund, Germany
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Glen P. Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Thomas E. Bernard
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Foster J, Smallcombe JW, Hodder S, Jay O, Flouris AD, Havenith G. Quantifying the impact of heat on human physical work capacity; part II: the observed interaction of air velocity with temperature, humidity, sweat rate, and clothing is not captured by most heat stress indices. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2022; 66:507-520. [PMID: 34743228 PMCID: PMC8850241 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-021-02212-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Increasing air movement can alleviate or exacerbate occupational heat strain, but the impact is not well defined across a wide range of hot environments, with different clothing levels. Therefore, we combined a large empirical study with a physical model of human heat transfer to determine the climates where increased air movement (with electric fans) provides effective body cooling. The model allowed us to generate practical advice using a high-resolution matrix of temperature and humidity. The empirical study involved a total of 300 1-h work trials in a variety of environments (35, 40, 45, and 50 °C, with 20 up to 80% relative humidity) with and without simulated wind (3.5 vs 0.2 m∙s-1), and wearing either minimal clothing or a full body work coverall. Our data provides compelling evidence that the impact of fans is strongly determined by air temperature and humidity. When air temperature is ≥ 35 °C, fans are ineffective and potentially harmful when relative humidity is below 50%. Our simulated data also show the climates where high wind/fans are beneficial or harmful, considering heat acclimation, age, and wind speed. Using unified weather indices, the impact of air movement is well captured by the universal thermal climate index, but not by wet-bulb globe temperature and aspirated wet-bulb temperature. Overall, the data from this study can inform new guidance for major public and occupational health agencies, potentially maintaining health and productivity in a warming climate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Foster
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - James W Smallcombe
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Simon Hodder
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Ollie Jay
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK.
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20
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Fisher JT, Ciuha U, Tipton MJ, Ioannou LG, Mekjavic IB. Predicting Deep Body Temperature (T b) from Forehead Skin Temperature: T b or Not T b? SENSORS 2022; 22:s22030826. [PMID: 35161573 PMCID: PMC8838465 DOI: 10.3390/s22030826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
There is a need to rapidly screen individuals for heat strain and fever using skin temperature (Tsk) as an index of deep body temperature (Tb). This study’s aim was to assess whether Tsk could serve as an accurate and valid index of Tb during a simulated heatwave. Seven participants maintained a continuous schedule over 9-days, in 3-day parts; pre-/post-HW (25.4 °C), simulated-HW (35.4 °C). Contact thermistors measured Tsk (Tforehead, Tfinger); radio pills measured gastrointestinal temperature (Tgi). Proximal-distal temperature gradients (ΔTforehead–finger) were also measured. Measurements were grouped into ambient conditions: 22, 25, and 35 °C. Tgi and Tforehead only displayed a significant relationship in 22 °C (r: 0.591; p < 0.001) and 25 °C (r: 0.408; p < 0.001) conditions. A linear regression of all conditions identified Tforehead and ΔTforehead–finger as significant predictors of Tgi (r2: 0.588; F: 125.771; p < 0.001), producing a root mean square error of 0.26 °C. Additional residual analysis identified Tforehead to be responsible for a plateau in Tgi prediction above 37 °C. Contact Tforehead was shown to be a statistically suitable indicator of Tgi in non-HW conditions; however, an error of ~1 °C makes this physiologically redundant. The measurement of multiple sites may improve Tb prediction, though it is still physiologically unsuitable, especially at higher ambient temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason T. Fisher
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (J.T.F.); (U.C.); (L.G.I.)
- International Postgraduate School Jozef Stefan, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Urša Ciuha
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (J.T.F.); (U.C.); (L.G.I.)
| | - Michael J. Tipton
- School of Sport, Health and Exercise Science, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2EF, UK;
| | - Leonidas G. Ioannou
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (J.T.F.); (U.C.); (L.G.I.)
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (J.T.F.); (U.C.); (L.G.I.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +386-1-477-3358
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21
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Flouris AD, Ioannou LG, Notley SR, Kenny GP. Determinants of heat stress and strain in electrical utilities workers across North America as assessed by means of an exploratory questionnaire. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2022; 19:12-22. [PMID: 34731074 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2021.2001475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Previous field studies monitoring small groups of participants showed that heat stress in the electrical utilities industry may be detrimental to worker health and safety. Our aim in this study was to characterize heat stress and strain in electrical utilities workers across North America. A total of 428 workers in the power generation, transmission, and distribution industry across 16 U.S. states and 3 Canadian Provinces completed a two-part on-line questionnaire anonymously. The first part comprised 13 general questions on the employee's workplace location, role in the organization, years of experience, general duties, average work shift duration, and other job-related information. It also included two questions on self-reported heat stress. The second part consisted of the "Heat Strain Score Index" (HSSI), a validated questionnaire which evaluates heat stress at the workplace as "safe level" (score ≤13.5: worker experiences no/low heat strain), "caution level" (score 13.6 to 18.0: moderate risk for heat strain), and "danger level" (score >18.0: high risk for heat strain). In addition to the survey, we obtained meteorological data from weather stations in proximity (12.3 ± 12.2 km) to the work locations. Based on the HSSI, 32.9%, 22.3%, and 44.4% of the responders' workplaces were diagnosed as "safe level," "caution level," and "danger level," respectively. The HSSI varied significantly depending on the occupation from 4.9 ± 3.2 in contact center workforce to 19.1 ± 5.4 in mechanics (p < 0.001), and demonstrated moderate linear relationships with summertime (June, July, August) midday air temperature (r = 0.317, p < 0.001) and outdoor midday Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (r = 0.322, p < 0.001). The highest HSSI was observed in mechanics, machine operators in line installations, line workers, electricians, and meter-readers. We conclude that electrical utilities workers experience instances of severe environmental heat stress resulting in elevated levels of heat strain, particularly when performing physically demanding tasks (e.g., manually climbing utility poles, installing lines).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leonidas G Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Sean R Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Glen P Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Foster J, Smallcombe JW, Hodder S, Jay O, Flouris AD, Nybo L, Havenith G. Quantifying the impact of heat on human physical work capacity; part III: the impact of solar radiation varies with air temperature, humidity, and clothing coverage. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2022; 66:175-188. [PMID: 34709466 PMCID: PMC8727397 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-021-02205-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Heat stress decreases human physical work capacity (PWC), but the extent to which solar radiation (SOLAR) compounds this response is not well understood. This study empirically quantified how SOLAR impacts PWC in the heat, considering wide, but controlled, variations in air temperature, humidity, and clothing coverage. We also provide correction equations so PWC can be quantified outdoors using heat stress indices that do not ordinarily account for SOLAR (including the Heat Stress Index, Humidex, and Wet-Bulb Temperature). Fourteen young adult males (7 donning a work coverall, 7 with shorts and trainers) walked for 1 h at a fixed heart rate of 130 beats∙min-1, in seven combinations of air temperature (25 to 45°C) and relative humidity (20 or 80%), with and without SOLAR (800 W/m2 from solar lamps). Cumulative energy expenditure in the heat, relative to the work achieved in a cool reference condition, was used to determine PWC%. Skin temperature was the primary determinant of PWC in the heat. In dry climates with exposed skin (0.3 Clo), SOLAR caused PWC to decrease exponentially with rising air temperature, whereas work coveralls (0.9 Clo) negated this effect. In humid conditions, the SOLAR-induced reduction in PWC was consistent and linear across all levels of air temperature and clothing conditions. Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature and the Universal Thermal Climate Index represented SOLAR correctly and did not require a correction factor. For the Heat Stress Index, Humidex, and Wet-Bulb Temperature, correction factors are provided enabling forecasting of heat effects on work productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Foster
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - James W Smallcombe
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon Hodder
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Ollie Jay
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK.
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23
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Current and projected regional economic impacts of heatwaves in Europe. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5807. [PMID: 34608159 PMCID: PMC8490455 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26050-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Extreme heat undermines the working capacity of individuals, resulting in lower productivity, and thus economic output. Here we analyse the present and future economic damages due to reduced labour productivity caused by extreme heat in Europe. For the analysis of current impacts, we focused on heatwaves occurring in four recent anomalously hot years (2003, 2010, 2015, and 2018) and compared our findings to the historical period 1981–2010. In the selected years, the total estimated damages attributed to heatwaves amounted to 0.3–0.5% of European gross domestic product (GDP). However, the identified losses were largely heterogeneous across space, consistently showing GDP impacts beyond 1% in more vulnerable regions. Future projections indicate that by 2060 impacts might increase in Europe by a factor of almost five compared to the historical period 1981–2010 if no further mitigation or adaptation actions are taken, suggesting the presence of more pronounced effects in the regions where these damages are already acute. Heatwaves are becoming increasingly frequent and more intense, causing severe economic impacts through reduced labour productivity. Here, the authors show that economic damages in Europe exceed 1% of the GDP in vulnerable areas, which might increase by a factor of almost five in the medium term without climate action.
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24
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Ebi KL, Capon A, Berry P, Broderick C, de Dear R, Havenith G, Honda Y, Kovats RS, Ma W, Malik A, Morris NB, Nybo L, Seneviratne SI, Vanos J, Jay O. Hot weather and heat extremes: health risks. Lancet 2021; 398:698-708. [PMID: 34419205 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)01208-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 325] [Impact Index Per Article: 108.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Hot ambient conditions and associated heat stress can increase mortality and morbidity, as well as increase adverse pregnancy outcomes and negatively affect mental health. High heat stress can also reduce physical work capacity and motor-cognitive performances, with consequences for productivity, and increase the risk of occupational health problems. Almost half of the global population and more than 1 billion workers are exposed to high heat episodes and about a third of all exposed workers have negative health effects. However, excess deaths and many heat-related health risks are preventable, with appropriate heat action plans involving behavioural strategies and biophysical solutions. Extreme heat events are becoming permanent features of summer seasons worldwide, causing many excess deaths. Heat-related morbidity and mortality are projected to increase further as climate change progresses, with greater risk associated with higher degrees of global warming. Particularly in tropical regions, increased warming might mean that physiological limits related to heat tolerance (survival) will be reached regularly and more often in coming decades. Climate change is interacting with other trends, such as population growth and ageing, urbanisation, and socioeconomic development, that can either exacerbate or ameliorate heat-related hazards. Urban temperatures are further enhanced by anthropogenic heat from vehicular transport and heat waste from buildings. Although there is some evidence of adaptation to increasing temperatures in high-income countries, projections of a hotter future suggest that without investment in research and risk management actions, heat-related morbidity and mortality are likely to increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie L Ebi
- Center for Health and the Global Environment, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Anthony Capon
- Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Berry
- Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Carolyn Broderick
- School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard de Dear
- Indoor Environmental Quality Laboratory, School of Architecture, Design, and Planning, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Yasushi Honda
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - R Sari Kovats
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Wei Ma
- School of Public Health and Climate Change and Health Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Arunima Malik
- Discipline of Accounting, Business School, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Physics, Faculty of Science, ISA, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nathan B Morris
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sonia I Seneviratne
- Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Vanos
- School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Ollie Jay
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Sydney School of Health Sciences, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine and Health, Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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25
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Morris NB, Piil JF, Morabito M, Messeri A, Levi M, Ioannou LG, Ciuha U, Pogačar T, Kajfež Bogataj L, Kingma B, Casanueva A, Kotlarski S, Spirig C, Foster J, Havenith G, Sotto Mayor T, Flouris AD, Nybo L. The HEAT-SHIELD project — Perspectives from an inter-sectoral approach to occupational heat stress. J Sci Med Sport 2021; 24:747-755. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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26
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Ioannou LG, Tsoutsoubi L, Mantzios K, Gkikas G, Piil JF, Dinas PC, Notley SR, Kenny GP, Nybo L, Flouris AD. The Impacts of Sun Exposure on Worker Physiology and Cognition: Multi-Country Evidence and Interventions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:7698. [PMID: 34300148 PMCID: PMC8303297 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A set of four case-control (n = 109), randomized-controlled (n = 7), cross-sectional (n = 78), and intervention (n = 47) studies was conducted across three countries to investigate the effects of sun exposure on worker physiology and cognition. METHODS Physiological, subjective, and cognitive performance data were collected from people working in ambient conditions characterized by the same thermal stress but different solar radiation levels. RESULTS People working under the sun were more likely to experience dizziness, weakness, and other symptoms of heat strain. These clinical impacts of sun exposure were not accompanied by changes in core body temperature but, instead, were linked with changes in skin temperature. Other physiological responses (heart rate, skin blood flow, and sweat rate) were also increased during sun exposure, while attention and vigilance were reduced by 45% and 67%, respectively, compared to exposure to a similar thermal stress without sunlight. Light-colored clothes reduced workers' skin temperature by 12-13% compared to darker-colored clothes. CONCLUSIONS Working under the sun worsens the physiological heat strain experienced and compromises cognitive function, even when the level of heat stress is thought to be the same as being in the shade. Wearing light-colored clothes can limit the physiological heat strain experienced by the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G. Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (L.T.); (K.M.); (G.G.); (P.C.D.)
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (J.F.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Lydia Tsoutsoubi
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (L.T.); (K.M.); (G.G.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Konstantinos Mantzios
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (L.T.); (K.M.); (G.G.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Giorgos Gkikas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (L.T.); (K.M.); (G.G.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Jacob F. Piil
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (J.F.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Petros C. Dinas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (L.T.); (K.M.); (G.G.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Sean R. Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (S.R.N.); (G.P.K.)
| | - Glen P. Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (S.R.N.); (G.P.K.)
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (J.F.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (L.T.); (K.M.); (G.G.); (P.C.D.)
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (S.R.N.); (G.P.K.)
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27
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Foster J, Smallcombe JW, Hodder S, Jay O, Flouris AD, Nybo L, Havenith G. An advanced empirical model for quantifying the impact of heat and climate change on human physical work capacity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2021; 65:1215-1229. [PMID: 33674931 PMCID: PMC8213606 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-021-02105-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Occupational heat stress directly hampers physical work capacity (PWC), with large economic consequences for industries and regions vulnerable to global warming. Accurately quantifying PWC is essential for forecasting impacts of different climate change scenarios, but the current state of knowledge is limited, leading to potential underestimations in mild heat, and overestimations in extreme heat. We therefore developed advanced empirical equations for PWC based on 338 work sessions in climatic chambers (low air movement, no solar radiation) spanning mild to extreme heat stress. Equations for PWC are available based on air temperature and humidity, for a suite of heat stress assessment metrics, and mean skin temperature. Our models are highly sensitive to mild heat and to our knowledge are the first to include empirical data across the full range of warm and hot environments possible with future climate change across the world. Using wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) as an example, we noted 10% reductions in PWC at mild heat stress (WBGT = 18°C) and reductions of 78% in the most extreme conditions (WBGT = 40°C). Of the different heat stress indices available, the heat index was the best predictor of group level PWC (R2 = 0.96) but can only be applied in shaded conditions. The skin temperature, but not internal/core temperature, was a strong predictor of PWC (R2 = 0.88), thermal sensation (R2 = 0.84), and thermal comfort (R2 = 0.73). The models presented apply to occupational workloads and can be used in climate projection models to predict economic and social consequences of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Foster
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - James W Smallcombe
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Simon Hodder
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Ollie Jay
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, School of Design and Creative Arts Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU, UK.
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Ioannou LG, Mantzios K, Tsoutsoubi L, Nintou E, Vliora M, Gkiata P, Dallas CN, Gkikas G, Agaliotis G, Sfakianakis K, Kapnia AK, Testa DJ, Amorim T, Dinas PC, Mayor TS, Gao C, Nybo L, Flouris AD. Occupational Heat Stress: Multi-Country Observations and Interventions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:6303. [PMID: 34200783 PMCID: PMC8296111 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational heat exposure can provoke health problems that increase the risk of certain diseases and affect workers' ability to maintain healthy and productive lives. This study investigates the effects of occupational heat stress on workers' physiological strain and labor productivity, as well as examining multiple interventions to mitigate the problem. METHODS We monitored 518 full work-shifts obtained from 238 experienced and acclimatized individuals who work in key industrial sectors located in Cyprus, Greece, Qatar, and Spain. Continuous core body temperature, mean skin temperature, heart rate, and labor productivity were collected from the beginning to the end of all work-shifts. RESULTS In workplaces where self-pacing is not feasible or very limited, we found that occupational heat stress is associated with the heat strain experienced by workers. Strategies focusing on hydration, work-rest cycles, and ventilated clothing were able to mitigate the physiological heat strain experienced by workers. Increasing mechanization enhanced labor productivity without increasing workers' physiological strain. CONCLUSIONS Empowering laborers to self-pace is the basis of heat mitigation, while tailored strategies focusing on hydration, work-rest cycles, ventilated garments, and mechanization can further reduce the physiological heat strain experienced by workers under certain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G. Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Konstantinos Mantzios
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Lydia Tsoutsoubi
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Eleni Nintou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Maria Vliora
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Paraskevi Gkiata
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Constantinos N. Dallas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Giorgos Gkikas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Gerasimos Agaliotis
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Kostas Sfakianakis
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Areti K. Kapnia
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Davide J. Testa
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Tânia Amorim
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Petros C. Dinas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
| | - Tiago S. Mayor
- SIMTECH Laboratory, Transport Phenomena Research Centre, Engineering Faculty of Porto University, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Chuansi Gao
- Thermal Environment Laboratory, Division of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology, Department of Design Sciences, Faculty of Engineering, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (L.G.I.); (K.M.); (L.T.); (E.N.); (M.V.); (P.G.); (C.N.D.); (G.G.); (G.A.); (K.S.); (A.K.K.); (D.J.T.); (T.A.); (P.C.D.)
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Ausseil AGE, Law RM, Parker AK, Teixeira EI, Sood A. Projected Wine Grape Cultivar Shifts Due to Climate Change in New Zealand. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:618039. [PMID: 33968094 PMCID: PMC8099174 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.618039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Climate change has already been affecting the regional suitability of grapevines with significant advances in phenology being observed globally in the last few decades. This has significant implications for New Zealand, where the wine industry represents a major share of the horticultural industry revenue. We modeled key crop phenological stages to better understand temporal and spatial shifts in three important regions of New Zealand (Marlborough, Hawke's Bay, Central Otago) for three dominant cultivars (Merlot, Pinot noir, and Sauvignon blanc) and one potential new and later ripening cultivar (Grenache). Simulations show an overall advance in flowering, véraison, and sugar ripeness by mid-century with more pronounced advance by the end of the century. Results show the magnitude of changes depends on the combination of greenhouse gas emission pathway, grape cultivar, and region. By mid-century, in the Marlborough region for instance, the four cultivars would flower 3 to 7 days earlier and reach sugar ripeness 7 to 15 days earlier depending on the greenhouse gas emission pathway. For growers to maintain the same timing of key phenological stages would require shifting planting of cultivars to more Southern parts of the country or implement adaptation strategies. Results also show the compression of time between flowering and véraison for all three dominant cultivars is due to a proportionally greater advance in véraison, particularly for Merlot in the Hawke's Bay and Pinot noir in Central Otago. Cross-regional analysis also raises the likelihood of the different regional cultivars ripening within a smaller window of time, complicating harvesting schedules across the country. However, considering New Zealand primarily accommodates cool climate viticulture cultivars, our results suggest that late ripening cultivars or extended ripening window in cooler regions may be advantageous in the face of climate change. These insights can inform New Zealand winegrowers with climate change adaptation options for their cultivar choices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard M Law
- Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Amber K Parker
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Lincoln, New Zealand
| | | | - Abha Sood
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Wellington, New Zealand
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30
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Ioannou LG, Mantzios K, Tsoutsoubi L, Panagiotaki Z, Kapnia AK, Ciuha U, Nybo L, Flouris AD, Mekjavic IB. Effect of a Simulated Heat Wave on Physiological Strain and Labour Productivity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:3011. [PMID: 33804091 PMCID: PMC7998810 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18063011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of a simulated heat-wave on the labour productivity and physiological strain experienced by workers. METHODS Seven males were confined for ten days in controlled ambient conditions. A familiarisation day was followed by three (pre, during, and post-heat-wave) 3-day periods. During each day volunteers participated in a simulated work-shift incorporating two physical activity sessions each followed by a session of assembly line task. Conditions were hot (work: 35.4 °C; rest: 26.3 °C) during, and temperate (work: 25.4 °C; rest: 22.3 °C) pre and post the simulated heat-wave. Physiological, biological, behavioural, and subjective data were collected throughout the study. RESULTS The simulated heat-wave undermined human capacity for work by increasing the number of mistakes committed, time spent on unplanned breaks, and the physiological strain experienced by the participants. Early adaptations were able to mitigate the observed implications on the second and third days of the heat-wave, as well as impacting positively on the post-heat-wave period. CONCLUSIONS Here, we show for first time that a controlled simulated heat-wave increases workers' physiological strain and reduces labour productivity on the first day, but it promotes adaptations mitigating the observed implications during the subsequent days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G. Ioannou
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (U.C.); (I.B.M.)
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42131 Trikala, Greece; (K.M.); (L.T.); (Z.P.); (A.K.K.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Konstantinos Mantzios
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42131 Trikala, Greece; (K.M.); (L.T.); (Z.P.); (A.K.K.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Lydia Tsoutsoubi
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42131 Trikala, Greece; (K.M.); (L.T.); (Z.P.); (A.K.K.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Zoe Panagiotaki
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42131 Trikala, Greece; (K.M.); (L.T.); (Z.P.); (A.K.K.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Areti K. Kapnia
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42131 Trikala, Greece; (K.M.); (L.T.); (Z.P.); (A.K.K.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Ursa Ciuha
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (U.C.); (I.B.M.)
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42131 Trikala, Greece; (K.M.); (L.T.); (Z.P.); (A.K.K.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jozef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (U.C.); (I.B.M.)
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31
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Al-Bouwarthan M, Quinn MM, Kriebel D, Wegman DH. A Field Evaluation of Construction Workers' Activity, Hydration Status, and Heat Strain in the Extreme Summer Heat of Saudi Arabia. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 64:522-535. [PMID: 32219304 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assess the impact of summer heat exposure (June-September) on residential construction workers in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia by evaluating (i) heart rate (HR) responses, hydration status, and physical workload among workers in indoor and outdoor construction settings, (ii) factors related to physiological responses to work in hot conditions, and (iii) how well wet-bulb globe temperature-based occupational exposure limits (WBGTOELs) predict measures of heat strain. METHODS Twenty-three construction workers (plasterers, tilers, and laborers) contributed 260 person-days of monitoring. Workload energy expenditure, HR, fluid intake, and pre- and postshift urine specific gravity (USG) were measured. Indoor and outdoor heat exposures (WBGT) were measured continuously and a WBGTOEL was calculated. The effects of heat exposure and workload on heart rate reserve (HRR), a measure of cardiovascular strain, were examined with linear mixed models. A metric called 'heat stress exceedance' (HSE) was constructed to summarize whether the environmental heat exposure (WBGT) exceeded the heat stress exposure limit (WBGTOEL). The sensitivity and specificity of the HSE as a predictor of cardiovascular strain (HRR ≥30%) were determined. RESULTS The WBGTOEL was exceeded frequently, on 63 person-days indoors (44%) and 91(78%) outdoors. High-risk HRR occurred on 26 and 36 person-days indoors and outdoors, respectively. The HSE metric showed higher sensitivity for HRR ≥30% outdoors (89%) than indoors (58%) and greater specificity indoors (59%) than outdoors (27%). Workload intensity was generally moderate, with light intensity work more common outdoors. The ability to self-pace work was associated with a lower frequency of HRR ≥30%. USG concentrations indicated that workers began and ended their shifts dehydrated (USG ≥1.020). CONCLUSIONS Construction work where WBGTOEL is commonly exceeded poses health risks. The ability of workers to self-pace may help reduce risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Bouwarthan
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA.,Department of Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Margaret M Quinn
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - David Kriebel
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - David H Wegman
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA.,La Isla Network, Ada, MI, USA
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32
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Taylor NAS, Lee JY, Kim S, Notley SR. Physiological interactions with personal-protective clothing, physically demanding work and global warming: An Asia-Pacific perspective. J Therm Biol 2021; 97:102858. [PMID: 33863427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2021.102858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The Asia-Pacific contains over half of the world's population, 21 countries have a Gross Domestic Product <25% of the world's largest economy, many countries have tropical climates and all suffer the impact of global warming. That 'perfect storm' exacerbates the risk of occupational heat illness, yet first responders must perform physically demanding work wearing personal-protective clothing and equipment. Unfortunately, the Eurocentric emphasis of past research has sometimes reduced its applicability to other ethnic groups. To redress that imbalance, relevant contemporary research has been reviewed, to which has been added information applicable to people of Asian, Melanesian and Polynesian ancestry. An epidemiological triad is used to identify the causal agents and host factors of work intolerance within hot-humid climates, commencing with the size dependency of resting metabolism and heat production accompanying load carriage, followed by a progression from the impact of single-layered clothing through to encapsulating ensembles. A morphological hypothesis is presented to account for inter-individual differences in heat production and heat loss, which seems to explain apparent ethnic- and gender-related differences in thermoregulation, at least within thermally compensable states. The mechanisms underlying work intolerance, cardiovascular insufficiency and heat illness are reviewed, along with epidemiological data from the Asia-Pacific. Finally, evidence-based preventative and treatment strategies are presented and updated concerning moisture-management fabrics and barriers, dehydration, pre- and post-exercise cooling, and heat adaptation. An extensive reference list is provided, with >25 recommendations enabling physiologists, occupational health specialists, policy makers, purchasing officers and manufacturers to rapidly extract interpretative outcomes pertinent to the Asia-Pacific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel A S Taylor
- Research Institute of Human Ecology, College of Human Ecology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Joo-Young Lee
- Research Institute of Human Ecology, College of Human Ecology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Siyeon Kim
- Human Convergence Technology R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sean R Notley
- School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Ausseil AGE, Law RM, Parker AK, Teixeira EI, Sood A. Projected Wine Grape Cultivar Shifts Due to Climate Change in New Zealand. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:618039. [PMID: 33968094 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.6180394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Climate change has already been affecting the regional suitability of grapevines with significant advances in phenology being observed globally in the last few decades. This has significant implications for New Zealand, where the wine industry represents a major share of the horticultural industry revenue. We modeled key crop phenological stages to better understand temporal and spatial shifts in three important regions of New Zealand (Marlborough, Hawke's Bay, Central Otago) for three dominant cultivars (Merlot, Pinot noir, and Sauvignon blanc) and one potential new and later ripening cultivar (Grenache). Simulations show an overall advance in flowering, véraison, and sugar ripeness by mid-century with more pronounced advance by the end of the century. Results show the magnitude of changes depends on the combination of greenhouse gas emission pathway, grape cultivar, and region. By mid-century, in the Marlborough region for instance, the four cultivars would flower 3 to 7 days earlier and reach sugar ripeness 7 to 15 days earlier depending on the greenhouse gas emission pathway. For growers to maintain the same timing of key phenological stages would require shifting planting of cultivars to more Southern parts of the country or implement adaptation strategies. Results also show the compression of time between flowering and véraison for all three dominant cultivars is due to a proportionally greater advance in véraison, particularly for Merlot in the Hawke's Bay and Pinot noir in Central Otago. Cross-regional analysis also raises the likelihood of the different regional cultivars ripening within a smaller window of time, complicating harvesting schedules across the country. However, considering New Zealand primarily accommodates cool climate viticulture cultivars, our results suggest that late ripening cultivars or extended ripening window in cooler regions may be advantageous in the face of climate change. These insights can inform New Zealand winegrowers with climate change adaptation options for their cultivar choices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard M Law
- Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Amber K Parker
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Lincoln, New Zealand
| | | | - Abha Sood
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Wellington, New Zealand
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Morris NB, Levi M, Morabito M, Messeri A, Ioannou LG, Flouris AD, Samoutis G, Pogačar T, Bogataj LK, Piil JF, Nybo L. Health vs. wealth: Employer, employee and policy-maker perspectives on occupational heat stress across multiple European industries. Temperature (Austin) 2020; 8:284-301. [PMID: 34485621 PMCID: PMC8409781 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2020.1852049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful implementation of cooling strategies obviously depends on identifying effective interventions, but in industrial settings, it is equally important to consider feasibility and economic viability. Many cooling interventions are available, but the decision processes affecting adoption by end-users are not well elucidated. We therefore arranged two series of meetings with stakeholders to identify knowledge gaps, receive feedback on proposed cooling interventions, and discuss factors affecting implementation of heat-health interventions. This included four meetings attended by employers, employees, and health and safety officers (n = 41), and three meetings attended primarily by policy makers (n = 74), with feedback obtained via qualitative and quantitative questionnaires and focus group discussions. On a 10-point scale, both employers and employees valued worker safety (9.1 ± 1.8; mean±SD) and health (8.5 ± 1.9) as more important than protecting company profits (6.3 ± 2.3). Of the respondents, 41% were unaware of any cooling strategies at their company and of those who were aware, only 30% thought the interventions were effective. Following presentation of proposed interventions, the respondents rated "facilitated hydration", "optimization of clothing/protective equipment", and "rescheduling of work tasks" as the top-three preferred solutions. The main barriers for adopting cooling interventions were cost, feasibility, employer perceptions, and legislation. In conclusion, preventing negative health and safety effects was deemed to be more important than preventing productivity loss. Regardless of work sector or occupation, both health and wealth were emphasized as important parameters and considered as somewhat interrelated. However, a large fraction of the European worker force lacks information on effective measures to mitigate occupational heat stress. List of abbreviations: OH-Stress: Occupational heat stress; WBGT: Wet Bulb Globe Temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B. Morris
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Technology Research and Innovation (CETRI), Lemesos, Cyprus
| | - Miriam Levi
- Epidemiology Unit, Department of Prevention, Local Health Authority Tuscany Center, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Morabito
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council, Florence, Italy
- Center of Bioclimatology (CIBIC), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Messeri
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council, Florence, Italy
- Center of Bioclimatology (CIBIC), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Leonidas G. Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | | | - Tjaša Pogačar
- Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lučka Kajfež Bogataj
- Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jacob F. Piil
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Foster J, Hodder SG, Goodwin J, Havenith G. Occupational Heat Stress and Practical Cooling Solutions for Healthcare and Industry Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Ann Work Expo Health 2020; 64:915-922. [PMID: 32955080 PMCID: PMC7543286 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment and management of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, which causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19), requires increased adoption of personal protective equipment (PPE) to be worn by workers in healthcare and industry. In warm occupational settings, the added burden of PPE threatens worker health and productivity, a major lesson learned during the West-African Ebola outbreak which ultimately constrained disease control. In this paper, we comment on the link between COVID-19 PPE and occupational heat strain, cooling solutions available to mitigate occupational heat stress, and practical considerations surrounding their effectiveness and feasibility. While the choice of cooling solution depends on the context of the work and what is practical, mitigating occupational heat stress benefits workers in the healthcare and industrial sectors during the COVID-19 disease outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Foster
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Design School, Loughborough, UK
| | - Simon G Hodder
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Design School, Loughborough, UK
| | - James Goodwin
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Design School, Loughborough, UK
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough University, Design School, Loughborough, UK
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36
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Romanovsky AA. Terrestrial warming and cooling: Either or both? Temperature (Austin) 2020; 7:215-216. [PMID: 33123617 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2020.1818914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrej A Romanovsky
- Zharko Pharma, Olympia, WA, USA.,School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
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Morris NB, Jay O, Flouris AD, Casanueva A, Gao C, Foster J, Havenith G, Nybo L. Sustainable solutions to mitigate occupational heat strain - an umbrella review of physiological effects and global health perspectives. Environ Health 2020; 19:95. [PMID: 32887627 PMCID: PMC7487490 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-020-00641-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change is set to exacerbate occupational heat strain, the combined effect of environmental and internal heat stress on the body, threatening human health and wellbeing. Therefore, identifying effective, affordable, feasible and sustainable solutions to mitigate the negative effects on worker health and productivity, is an increasingly urgent need. OBJECTIVES To systematically identify and evaluate methods that mitigate occupational heat strain in order to provide scientific-based guidance for practitioners. METHODS An umbrella review was conducted in biomedical databases employing the following eligibility criteria: 1) ambient temperatures > 28 °C or hypohydrated participants, 2) healthy adults, 3) reported psychophysiological (thermal comfort, heart rate or core temperature) and/or performance (physical or cognitive) outcomes, 4) written in English, and 5) published before November 6, 2019. A second search for original research articles was performed to identify interventions of relevance but lacking systematic reviews. All identified interventions were independently evaluated by all co-authors on four point scales for effectiveness, cost, feasibility and environmental impact. RESULTS Following screening, 36 systematic reviews fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The most effective solutions at mitigating occupational heat strain were wearing specialized cooling garments, (physiological) heat acclimation, improving aerobic fitness, cold water immersion, and applying ventilation. Although air-conditioning and cooling garments in ideal settings provide best scores for effectiveness, the limited applicability in certain industrial settings, high economic cost and high environmental impact are drawbacks for these solutions. However, (physiological) acclimatization, planned breaks, shading and optimized clothing properties are attractive alternative solutions when economic and ecological sustainability aspects are included in the overall evaluation. DISCUSSION Choosing the most effective solution or combinations of methods to mitigate occupational heat strain will be scenario-specific. However, this paper provides a framework for integrating effectiveness, cost, feasibility (indoors and outdoor) and ecologic sustainability to provide occupational health and safety professionals with evidence-based guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B. Morris
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for Integrative Physiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Ollie Jay
- Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, School of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
| | - Ana Casanueva
- Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, MeteoSwiss, Zurich Airport, Zurich, Switzerland
- Meteorology Group, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Sciences, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Chuansi Gao
- Thermal Environment Laboratory, Division of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology, Department of Design Sciences, Faculty of Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Josh Foster
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design School, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design School, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for Integrative Physiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
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Pogačar T, Žnidaršič Z, Kajfež Bogataj L, Črepinšek Z. Steps Towards Comprehensive Heat Communication in the Frame of a Heat Health Warning System in Slovenia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E5829. [PMID: 32806556 PMCID: PMC7459531 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Occupational heat stress has an important negative impact on the well-being, health and productivity of workers and should; therefore, be recognized as a public health issue in Europe. There is no comprehensive heat health warning system in Slovenia combining public health measures with meteorological forecasts. The aim of this research was to provide insight into the development of such a system in Slovenia, turning the communication from the current meteoalarm into a broader system that has more information for different social groups. To achieve this goal, the following steps were used: Analysis of summer temperatures and issued meteoalarms, a survey of the general knowledge about heat among the public, organization and management of two stakeholder symposia, and a final survey on workers' opinions on heat stress and measures, supplemented by interviews with employers. Summer average daily temperature distributions in Slovenia changed during the investigated period (1961-2019) and the mean values increased over time by 2-3 °C. Additionally, the number of days with fulfilled yellow (potentially dangerous) and especially orange (dangerous) meteoalarm conditions increased significantly after 1990. The survey of the general public about heat stress and warnings showed that efforts to raise awareness of heat issues need to be intensified and that public health measures should effectively target vulnerable groups. Stakeholder symposia and further surveys have shown that awareness and understanding of the negative effects of heat stress on health and productivity are still quite low, so effective ways of disseminating information to different sectors while striking the best balance between efficiency, feasibility and economic cost have to be found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjaša Pogačar
- Centre of Agrometeorology, Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (L.K.B.); (Z.Č.)
| | - Zala Žnidaršič
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana, Jadranska 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Lučka Kajfež Bogataj
- Centre of Agrometeorology, Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (L.K.B.); (Z.Č.)
| | - Zalika Črepinšek
- Centre of Agrometeorology, Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (L.K.B.); (Z.Č.)
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Cardiorespiratory and Thermoregulatory Parameters Are Good Surrogates for Measuring Physical Fatigue during a Simulated Construction Task. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17155418. [PMID: 32731366 PMCID: PMC7432684 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cardiorespiratory (e.g., heart rate and breathing rate) and thermoregulatory (e.g., local skin temperature and electrodermal activity) responses are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. To cope with increased physical workload, the sympathetic system upregulates its activity to generate greater sympathetic responses (i.e., increased heart rate and respiratory rate). Therefore, physiological measures may have the potential to evaluate changes in physical condition (including fatigue) during functional tasks. This study aimed to quantify physical fatigue using wearable cardiorespiratory and thermoregulatory sensors during a simulated construction task. Twenty-five healthy individuals (mean age, 31.8 ± 1.8 years) were recruited. Participants were instructed to perform 30 min of a simulated manual material handling task in a laboratory. The experimental setup comprised a station A, a 10-metre walking platform, and a station B. Each participant was asked to pick up a 15 kg ergonomically-designed wooden box from station A and then carried it along the platform and dropped it at station B. The task was repeated from B to A and then A to B until the participants perceived a fatigue level > 15 out of 20 on the Borg-20 scale. Heart rate, breathing rate, local skin temperature, and electrodermal activity at the wrist were measured by wearable sensors and the perceived physical fatigue was assessed using the Borg-20 scale at baseline, 15 min, and 30 min from the baseline. There were significant increases in the heart rate (mean changes: 50 ± 13.3 beats/min), breathing rate (mean changes: 9.8 ± 4.1 breaths), local skin temperature (mean changes: 3.4 ± 1.9 °C), electrodermal activity at the right wrist (mean changes: 7.1 ± 3.8 µS/cm), and subjective physical fatigue (mean changes: 8.8 ± 0.6 levels) at the end of the simulated construction task (p < 0.05). Heart rate and breathing rate at 15 and 30 min were significantly correlated with the corresponding subjective Borg scores (p < 0.01). Local skin temperature at 30 min was significantly correlated with the corresponding Borg scores (p < 0.05). However, electrodermal activity at the right wrist was not associated with Borg scores at any time points. The results implied cardiorespiratory parameters and local skin temperature were good surrogates for measuring physical fatigue. Conversely, electrodermal activity at the right wrist was unrelated to physical fatigue. Future field studies should investigate the sensitivity of various cardiorespiratory and thermoregulatory parameters for real time physical fatigue monitoring in construction sites.
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40
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Piil JF, Christiansen L, Morris NB, Mikkelsen CJ, Ioannou LG, Flouris AD, Lundbye-Jensen J, Nybo L. Direct exposure of the head to solar heat radiation impairs motor-cognitive performance. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7812. [PMID: 32385322 PMCID: PMC7210303 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64768-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Health and performance impairments provoked by thermal stress are societal challenges geographically spreading and intensifying with global warming. Yet, science may be underestimating the true impact, since no study has evaluated effects of sunlight exposure on human brain temperature and function. Accordingly, performance in cognitively dominated and combined motor-cognitive tasks and markers of rising brainstem temperature were evaluated during exposure to simulated sunlight (equal to ~1000 watt/m2). Acute exposure did not affect any performance measures, whereas prolonged exposure of the head and neck provoked an elevation of the core temperature by 1 °C and significant impairments of cognitively dominated and motor task performances. Importantly, impairments emerged at considerably lower hyperthermia levels compared to previous experiments and to the trials in the presents study without radiant heating of the head. These findings highlight the importance of including the effect of sunlight radiative heating of the head and neck in future scientific evaluations of environmental heat stress impacts and specific protection of the head to minimize detrimental effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob F Piil
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for integrative physiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Lasse Christiansen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for integrative physiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark.,Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Center for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nathan B Morris
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for integrative physiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - C Jacob Mikkelsen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for integrative physiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Leonidas G Ioannou
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for integrative physiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark.,FAME Laboratory, School of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
| | - Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, School of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
| | - Jesper Lundbye-Jensen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for integrative physiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Section for integrative physiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
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41
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Notley SR, Flouris AD, Kenny GP. Occupational heat stress management: Does one size fit all? Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:1017-1023. [PMID: 30791115 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Heat stress is a deadly occupational hazard that is projected to increase in severity with global warming. While upper limits for heat stress designed to protect all workers have been recommended by occupational safety institutes for some time, heat stress continues to compromise health and productivity. In our view, this is largely explained by the inability of existing guidelines to consider the inter-individual (age, sex, disease, others) and intra-individual (medication use, fitness, hydration, others) factors that cause extensive variability in physiological tolerance to a given heat stress. In conditions that do not exceed the recommended limits, this 'one size fits all' approach to heat stress management can lead to reductions in productivity in more heat-tolerant workers, while compromising safety in less heat-tolerant workers who may develop heat-related illness, even in temperate conditions. Herein, we discuss future directions in occupational heat stress management that consider this individual variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean R. Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research UnitSchool of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa OttawaCanada
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research UnitSchool of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa OttawaCanada
- FAME LaboratoryDepartment of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly TrikalaGreece
| | - Glen P. Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research UnitSchool of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa OttawaCanada
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42
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Mix JM, Elon L, Thein Mac VV, Flocks J, Economos J, Tovar‐Aguilar AJ, Hertzberg VS, McCauley LA. Physical activity and work activities in Florida agricultural workers. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:1058-1067. [PMID: 31418883 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Laboring in hot and humid conditions is a risk factor for heat-related illnesses. Little is known about the amount of physical activity performed in the field setting by agricultural workers, a population that is among those at highest risk for heat-related mortality in the United States. METHODS We measured accelerometer-based physical activity and work activities performed in 244 Florida agricultural workers, 18 to 54 years of age, employed in the fernery, nursery, and crop operations during the summer work seasons of 2015-2017. Environmental temperature data during the participant's workdays were collected from the Florida Automated Weather Network and used to calculate wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT). Generalized linear mixed model regression was used to examine the association between WBGT on physical activity, stratified by the agricultural sector. RESULTS Fernery workers had the highest overall volume of physical activity, spending nearly 4 hours in moderate to vigorous activity per workday. Activity over the course of the workday also differed by the agricultural sector. A reduction on average physical activity with increasing environmental temperature was observed only among crop workers. CONCLUSIONS The quantity and patterns of physical activity varied by the agricultural sector, sex, and age, indicating that interventions that aim to reduce heat-related morbidity and mortality should be tailored to specific subpopulations. Some workers did not reduce overall physical activity under dangerously hot environmental conditions, which has implications for policies protecting worker health. Future research is needed to determine how physical activity and climatic conditions impact the development of heat-related disorders in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M. Mix
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of NursingEmory University Atlanta Georgia
| | - Lisa Elon
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory University Atlanta Georgia
| | | | - Joan Flocks
- Center for Governmental Responsibility, Levin College of LawUniversity of Florida Gainesville Florida
| | | | | | | | - Linda A. McCauley
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of NursingEmory University Atlanta Georgia
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43
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Ioannou LG, Tsoutsoubi L, Mantzios K, Flouris AD. A free software to predict heat strain according to the ISO 7933:2018. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2019; 57:711-720. [PMID: 30918161 PMCID: PMC6885605 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2018-0216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Our primary objective in this study was to design and implement the FAME Lab PHS Calculator software (PHSFL) (www.famelab.gr/research/downloads), a free tool to calculate the predicted heat strain of an individual based on ISO 7933:2018. Our secondary objective was to optimize the practicality of the PHSFL by incorporating knowledge from other ISO standards and published literature. The third objective of this study was to assess: (i) the criterion-related validity of the PHSFL by comparing its results against those obtained using the original ISO 7933:2018 code; and (ii) the construct validity of the PHSFL by comparing its results against those obtained via field experiments performed in human participants during work in the heat. Our analysis for criterion validity demonstrates that PHSFL provides valid results within the required computational accuracy, according to Annex F of ISO 7933:2018. The construct validity showed that root mean square errors (RMSE) and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were minimal between measured and predicted core temperature (RMSE: 0.3°C; LOA: 0.06 ± 0.58°C) and small between measured and predicted mean skin temperature (RMSE: 1.1°C; LOA: 0.59 ± 1.83°C). In conclusion, the PHSFL software demonstrated strong criterion-related and construct-related validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonidas G Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, School of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Greece
| | - Lydia Tsoutsoubi
- FAME Laboratory, School of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Greece
| | | | - Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, School of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Greece
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Oliveira BFADE, Silveira IH, Feitosa RC, Horta MAP, Junger WL, Hacon S. Human Heat stress risk prediction in the Brazilian semiarid Region based on the Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2019; 91:e20180748. [PMID: 31596390 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765201920180748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE the aim of this study is to map thermal stress risks for human health at the São Francisco River Basin (SFRB) in the Semiarid region, for climatic scenarios RCP 4.5 and 8.5. METHODS The heat stress conditions were defined by the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) indicator and by the average number of annual days in which the WBGT values exceeded the 90th percentile of the reference period. The WBGT was estimated for the climate scenarios RCP 4.5 (intermediate) and 8.5 (pessimistic) for the period 2011-2090 comparing to the period of reference (1961-2005). RESULTS The projections show that for the pessimistic scenario practically all municipalities of the SFRB region can reach values of WBGT that indicate a high risk for heat stress in the period 2071-2099. For this same scenario and period, the municipalities of the Lower and Under-average regions may present values of WBGT above the 90th percentile of the reference period in more than 90% of the days/year. CONCLUSIONS These results show that, if the emission of greenhouse gases continues in the present proportions, some municipalities of the SFRB region may present a high risk for heat stress affecting the work capacity and the practice of physical exercises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Fátima A DE Oliveira
- National School of Public Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 1480 Leopoldo Bulhões St., Manguinhos, 20160-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ismael Henrique Silveira
- Institute of Social Medicine, State University of Rio de Janeiro, 524 São Francisco Xavier St., Maracanã, 20550-900 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Renato C Feitosa
- National School of Public Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 1480 Leopoldo Bulhões St., Manguinhos, 20160-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marco Aurélio P Horta
- Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 4365 Brasil Ave., Manguinhos, 21040-900 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Washington L Junger
- Institute of Social Medicine, State University of Rio de Janeiro, 524 São Francisco Xavier St., Maracanã, 20550-900 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sandra Hacon
- National School of Public Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 1480 Leopoldo Bulhões St., Manguinhos, 20160-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Morabito M, Messeri A, Noti P, Casanueva A, Crisci A, Kotlarski S, Orlandini S, Schwierz C, Spirig C, Kingma BRM, Flouris AD, Nybo L. An Occupational Heat-Health Warning System for Europe: The HEAT-SHIELD Platform. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E2890. [PMID: 31412559 PMCID: PMC6718993 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16162890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Existing heat-health warning systems focus on warning vulnerable groups in order to reduce mortality. However, human health and performance are affected at much lower environmental heat strain levels than those directly associated with higher mortality. Moreover, workers are at elevated health risks when exposed to prolonged heat. This study describes the multilingual "HEAT-SHIELD occupational warning system" platform (https://heatshield.zonalab.it/) operating for Europe and developed within the framework of the HEAT-SHIELD project. This system is based on probabilistic medium-range forecasts calibrated on approximately 1800 meteorological stations in Europe and provides the ensemble forecast of the daily maximum heat stress. The platform provides a non-customized output represented by a map showing the weekly maximum probability of exceeding a specific heat stress condition, for each of the four upcoming weeks. Customized output allows the forecast of the personalized local heat-stress-risk based on workers' physical, clothing and behavioral characteristics and the work environment (outdoors in the sun or shade), also taking into account heat acclimatization. Personal daily heat stress risk levels and behavioral suggestions (hydration and work breaks recommended) to be taken into consideration in the short term (5 days) are provided together with long-term heat risk forecasts (up to 46 days), all which are useful for planning work activities. The HEAT-SHIELD platform provides adaptation strategies for "managing" the impact of global warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Morabito
- Institute of BioEconomy-National Research Council, 50019 Florence, Italy.
- Centre of Bioclimatology-University of Florence, 50144 Florence, Italy.
| | | | - Pascal Noti
- Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, MeteoSwiss, Zurich Airport, 8058 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ana Casanueva
- Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, MeteoSwiss, Zurich Airport, 8058 Zurich, Switzerland
- Meteorology Group, Dept. Applied Mathematics and Computer Sciences, University of Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
| | - Alfonso Crisci
- Institute of BioEconomy-National Research Council, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Sven Kotlarski
- Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, MeteoSwiss, Zurich Airport, 8058 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simone Orlandini
- Centre of Bioclimatology-University of Florence, 50144 Florence, Italy
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Forestry Sciences and Technologies, University of Florence, 50144 Florence, Italy
| | - Cornelia Schwierz
- Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, MeteoSwiss, Zurich Airport, 8058 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Spirig
- Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, MeteoSwiss, Zurich Airport, 8058 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Boris R M Kingma
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Unit Defense, Safety and Security, The Netherlands Organisation of Applied Scientific Research, 3769DE Soesterberg, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Karies, Greece
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Overview of Existing Heat-Health Warning Systems in Europe. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16152657. [PMID: 31349585 PMCID: PMC6695887 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16152657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The frequency of extreme heat events, such as the summer of 2003 in Europe, and their corresponding consequences for human beings are expected to increase under a warmer climate. The joint collaboration of institutional agencies and multidisciplinary approaches is essential for a successful development of heat-health warning systems and action plans which can reduce the impacts of extreme heat on the population. The present work constitutes a state-of-the-art review of 16 European heat-health warning systems and heat-health action plans, based on the existing literature, web search (over the National Meteorological Services websites) and questionnaires. The aim of this study is to pave the way for future heat-health warning systems, such as the one currently under development in the framework of the Horizon 2020 HEAT-SHIELD project. Some aspects are highlighted among the variety of examined European warning systems. The meteorological variables that trigger the warnings should present a clear link with the impact under consideration and should be chosen depending on the purpose and target of the warnings. Setting long-term planning actions as well as pre-alert levels might prevent and reduce damages due to heat. Finally, education and communication are key elements of the success of a warning system.
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POULIANITI KP, HAVENITH G, FLOURIS AD. Metabolic energy cost of workers in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, tourism, and transportation industries. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2019; 57:283-305. [PMID: 30058597 PMCID: PMC6546587 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2018-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The assessment of energy cost (EC) at the workplace remains a key topic in occupational health due to the ever-increasing prevalence of work-related issues. This review provides a detailed list of EC estimations in jobs/tasks included in tourism, agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and transportation industries. A total of 61 studies evaluated the EC of 1,667 workers while performing a large number of tasks related to each of the aforementioned five industries. Agriculture includes the most energy-demanding jobs (males: 6.0 ± 2.5 kcal/min; females: 2.9 ± 1.0 kcal/min). Jobs in the construction industry were the 2nd most demanding (males: 4.9 ± 1.6 kcal/min; no data for females). The industry with the 3rd highest EC estimate was manufacturing (males: 3.8 ± 1.1 kcal/min; females: 3.0 ± 1.3 kcal/min). Transportation presented relatively moderate EC estimates (males: 3.1 ± 1.0 kcal/min; no data for females). Tourism jobs demonstrated the lowest EC values (2.5 ± 0.9 kcal/min for males and females). It is hoped that this information will aid the development of future instruments and guidelines aiming to protect workers' health, safety, and productivity. Future research should provide updated EC estimates within a wide spectrum of occupational settings taking into account the sex, age, and physiological characteristics of the workers as well as the individual characteristics of each workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George HAVENITH
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design
School, Loughborough University, UK
| | - Andreas D. FLOURIS
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University
of Thessaly, Greece
- Human and Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty
of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Canada
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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Heat Acclimation Does Not Protect Trained Males from Hyperthermia-Induced Impairments in Complex Task Performance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16050716. [PMID: 30823366 PMCID: PMC6427404 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16050716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated if adaptation to environmental heat stress can counteract the negative effects of hyperthermia on complex motor performance. Thirteen healthy, trained males completed 28 days of heat acclimation with 1 h daily exercise exposure to environmental heat (39.4 ± 0.3 °C and 27.0 ± 1.0% relative humidity). Following comprehensive familiarization, the participants completed motor-cognitive testing before acclimation, as well as after 14 and 28 days of training in the heat. On all three occasions, the participants were tested, at baseline (after ~15 min passive heat exposure) and following exercise-induced hyperthermia which provoked an increase in core temperature of 2.8 ± 0.1 °C (similar across days). Both cognitively dominated test scores and motor performance were maintained during passive heat exposure (no reduction or difference between day 0, 14, and 28 compared to cool conditions). In contrast, complex motor task performance was significantly reduced in hyperthermic conditions by 9.4 ± 3.4% at day 0; 15.1 ± 5.0% at day 14, and 13.0 ± 4.8% at day 28 (all p < 0.05 compared to baseline but not different across days). These results let us conclude that heat acclimation cannot protect trained males from being negatively affected by hyperthermia when they perform complex tasks relying on a combination of cognitive performance and motor function.
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Heat Waves Occurrence and Outdoor Workers' Self-assessment of Heat Stress in Slovenia and Greece. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16040597. [PMID: 30791365 PMCID: PMC6406360 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16040597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Changing patterns of heat waves are part of the global warming effect and the importance of changes is reinforced by their negative impact on society. Firstly, heat waves were analyzed in Brnik (Slovenia) and Larisa (Greece) in the period 1981–2017 to reflect the environment which workers are exposed to. Secondly, outdoor workers (70 from Greece, 216 from Slovenia) provided a self-assessment of heat stress. The heat wave timeline is presented as an effective way of illustrating long-term changes in heat waves’ characteristics for various stakeholders. In both countries, workers assessed as significant the heat stress impact on productivity (Greece 69%, Slovenia 71%; p > 0.05), and in Slovenia also on well-being (74%; p < 0.01). The main experienced symptoms and diseases were thirst (Greece 70%, Slovenia 82%; p = 0.03), excessive sweating (67%, 85%; p = 0.01), exhaustion (51%, 62%; p > 0.05) and headache (44%, 53%; p > 0.05). The most common way to reduce heat stress was drinking more water (Greece 64%, Slovenia 82%; p = 0.001). Among the informed workers, the prevalent source of information was discussions. Therefore, educational campaigns are recommended, together with the testing of the efficiency of mitigation measures that will be proposed on the Heat-Shield project portal.
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Flouris AD, Dinas PC, Ioannou LG, Nybo L, Havenith G, Kenny GP, Kjellstrom T. Workers' health and productivity under occupational heat strain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Planet Health 2018; 2:e521-e531. [PMID: 30526938 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(18)30237-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational heat strain (ie, the effect of environmental heat stress on the body) directly threatens workers' ability to live healthy and productive lives. We estimated the effects of occupational heat strain on workers' health and productivity outcomes. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines for this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed and Embase from database inception to Feb 5, 2018, for relevant studies in any labour environment and at any level of occupational heat strain. No restrictions on language, workers' health status, or study design were applied. Occupational heat strain was defined using international health and safety guidelines and standards. We excluded studies that calculated effects using simulations or statistical models instead of actual measurements, and any grey literature. Risk of bias, data extraction, and sensitivity analysis were performed by two independent investigators. Six random-effects meta-analyses estimated the prevalence of occupational heat strain, kidney disease or acute kidney injury, productivity loss, core temperature, change in urine specific gravity, and odds of occupational heat strain occurring during or at the end of a work shift in heat stress conditions. The review protocol is available on PROSPERO, registration number CRD42017083271. FINDINGS Of 958 reports identified through our systematic search, 111 studies done in 30 countries, including 447 million workers from more than 40 different occupations, were eligible for analysis. Our meta-analyses showed that individuals working a single work shift under heat stress (defined as wet-bulb globe temperature beyond 22·0 or 24·8°C depending on work intensity) were 4·01 times (95% CI 2·45-6·58; nine studies with 11 582 workers) more likely to experience occupational heat strain than an individual working in thermoneutral conditions, while their core temperature was increased by 0·7°C (0·4-1·0; 17 studies with 1090 workers) and their urine specific gravity was increased by 14·5% (0·0031, 0·0014-0·0048; 14 studies with 691 workers). During or at the end of a work shift under heat stress, 35% (31-39; 33 studies with 13 088 workers) of workers experienced occupational heat strain, while 30% (21-39; 11 studies with 8076 workers) reported productivity losses. Finally, 15% (11-19; ten studies with 21 721 workers) of individuals who typically or frequently worked under heat stress (minimum of 6 h per day, 5 days per week, for 2 months of the year) experienced kidney disease or acute kidney injury. Overall, this analysis include a variety of populations, exposures, and occupations to comply with a wider adoption of evidence synthesis, but resulted in large heterogeneity in our meta-analyses. Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation analysis revealed moderate confidence for most results and very low confidence in two cases (average core temperature and change in urine specific gravity) due to studies being funded by industry. INTERPRETATION Occupational heat strain has important health and productivity outcomes and should be recognised as a public health problem. Concerted international action is needed to mitigate its effects in light of climate change and the anticipated rise in heat stress. FUNDING EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece; Human and Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottowa, ON, Canada.
| | - Petros C Dinas
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Leonidas G Ioannou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece; Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Technology Research and Innovation, Lemesos, Cyprus
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, August Krogh Building, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - George Havenith
- Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, Loughborough Design School, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Glen P Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottowa, ON, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tord Kjellstrom
- Centre for Technology Research and Innovation, Lemesos, Cyprus
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