Factors Causing Heat Stress
Reduced work tolerance and the increased risk of excessive heat stress is directly influenced by the amount and type of PPE worn.
Heat Stress and Dehydration
The Effects of Heat Stress and Dehydration on Measures of Cardiac and Vascular Function.
PPE adds weight and bulk, severely reduces the body's access to normal heat exchange mechanisms (evaporation, convection, and radiation), and increases energy expenditure.
Selecting PPE
When selecting PPE, each item's benefit should be carefully evaluated about its potential for increasing the risk of heat stress.
Once PPE is selected, the safe duration of work/rest periods should be determined based on the:
- anticipated work rate
- ambient temperature and other environmental factors
- type of protective ensemble
- individual worker characteristics and fitness
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-2. How might wearing PPE increase the risk of excessive heat stress?
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