Protective clothing against cold--performance standards as method for preventive measures

Survival, function and comfort in the cold are dependent on a rational and cautious use of protective measures to reduce and control heat losses. International standards are now available for establishing a basis for the rational assessment of protection requirements and the subsequent selection of appropriate clothing. Protection requirements may be readily calculated by the IREQ-index (ISO/TR-11079), which specifies required resultant clothing insulation for given conditions. Performance of selected clothing ensemble can be tested by measuring the insulation value on a moveable, thermal manikin according to prEN-342. Similarly, performance of protective gloves against cold may be tested with a heated hand model (prEN-511). It is important to emphasize that the outlined procedure should only be applied as a guide-line for action. Due to considerable individual variation in capacities, preference and demand, room must be available for behavioral adjustments, as well as clothing must be flexible enough to accommodate these adjustments.