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. 2011 Jun;55(5):548-55.
doi: 10.1093/annhyg/mer012. Epub 2011 Apr 7.

Self-pacing as a protective mechanism against the effects of heat stress

Veronica Miller  1 , Graham Bates, John D Schneider, Jens Thomsen
Affiliations

Self-pacing as a protective mechanism against the effects of heat stress

Veronica Miller et al. Ann Occup Hyg. 2011 Jun.

Abstract

Objective: Self-pacing or avoidance of physiological strain by adjustment of work rate may be an important protective behaviour for manual workers in severe thermal conditions. Data were gathered at a number of industrial sites in the United Arab Emirates to assess whether self-pacing takes place in these workers.

Methods: Heart rate and aural temperature were monitored in 150 subjects for 12 h daily over 2 consecutive days. Environmental parameters were measured for quantification of heat stress by the thermal work limit.

Results: There was no evidence of an effect of variation in environmental thermal stress on either average working heart rate or aural temperature.

Conclusion: These studies provide evidence that self-pacing is a protective response to working in heat which does not require a highly informed workforce; recognition of this should form part of a holistic approach to management of heat stress in hot climates.

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