[Value of complex methods of evaluating microclimatic conditions]

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Human Physiology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Accurate microclimate evaluation is crucial for assessing heat stress.
• Existing indices vary in their correlation with physiological responses.
• Understanding these correlations aids in preventing heat-related illnesses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the accuracy of the total index of microclimate evaluation (qtr).
• To compare the correlation of various climate indices with physiological parameters.
• To identify the most reliable indices for heat stress assessment.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an analog calculator for microclimate data processing.
• Analyzed climate measurements including qtr, Predicted 4-Hour Sweat Rate (P4SR), Index of Thermal Stress (ITS), Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), Globe Temperature (tg), Heat Stress Index (HSI), Humid Operative Temperature (toH), and Effective Temperature (ET).
• Measured physiological parameters (heart rate, body core temperature, skin temperature, sweat loss) in 37 subjects under varying physical exertion levels.

Main Results:

• Regression and correlation analyses were performed on the collected data.
• The total index of microclimate evaluation (qtr) demonstrated the strongest correlation with all measured physiological parameters.
• The Predicted 4-Hour Sweat Rate (P4SR) index also showed a high correlation with physiological responses.

Conclusions:

• The total index of microclimate evaluation (qtr) and P4SR are highly effective in assessing human physiological responses to heat stress.
• These indices provide a reliable basis for evaluating microclimate conditions and potential heat strain.
• Findings support the use of qtr and P4SR in occupational health and environmental science for heat stress management.