The physiological strain induced by a new low burden chemical protective ensemble

The physiological responses of a group of nine subjects exercising at a metabolic rate of 510 W in a new low burden chemical protective ensemble, the Chemical/Biological Combat Suit (CBCS), have been determined under a warm, humid climatic condition, 30 degrees C and 60% relative humidity. The CBCS was significantly superior to a current NBC overgarment (MK4) in terms of induced physiological strain. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference between the normal combat uniform (DPCU) and the CBCS worn as a combat uniform (CS), without hood, mask and gloves, in terms of increase in rectal temperature and increase in heart rate. The major limitation on performance in the fully encapsulated CBCS was imposed by the combination of mask, permeable hood and impermeable gloves. It was concluded that there would be a significant improvement in soldier performance in the CBCS rather than in the current MK4 overgarment and that there would be no detriment to soldier performance when wearing the CS uniform in times of chemical threat.