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Updated: Mar 11, 2026

Field-Based Thermal Physiology Assay: Cold Shock Recovery under Ambient Conditions
Published on: March 9, 2021
Physiological and perceptual effects of a cooling garment during simulated industrial work in the heat
Cory L Butts1, Cody R Smith1, Matthew S Ganio1
1Human Performance Laboratory, University of Arkansas, 155 Stadium Dr HPER 321, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA.
Objective:
Evaluate physiological and perceptual responses using a phase change cooling (PCC) garment during simulated work in the heat.
Methods:
Twenty males wearing compression undergarments, coverall suit, gloves, and hard-hat, completed two randomly assigned trials (with PCC inserts or control, CON) of simulated industrial tasks in the heat (34.2 ± 0.05 °C, 54.7 ± 0.3%RH). Trials consisted of two 20 min work bouts, a maximum performance bout, and 10 min of recovery.
Results:
Physiological strain index (PSI) was lower during PCC after the second work bout and during recovery (all P < 0.05). PCC reduced heat storage (27.0 ± 7.6 W m-2) compared to CON (42.7 ± 9.9 W m-2, P < 0.001). Perceptual strain index (PeSI) was reduced with PCC compared to CON (P < 0.001), however performance outcomes were not different between trials (P = 0.10).
Conclusions:
PCC during work in the heat attenuated thermal, physiological, and perceptual strain. This PCC garment could increase safety and reduce occupational heat illness risk.
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