Scoping review on the state of the integration of human physiological responses to evaluating heat-stress

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the state of the literature on assessing heat-stress using physiological parameters. To provide recommendations to the nuclear industry regarding worker heat-stress management practices.

Methods: A scoping review identified relevant articles. A search strategy was developed based on a research question concepts. Identified records were screened with inclusion-exclusion criteria. Included articles underwent data extraction using a qualitative data charting method. A thematic analysis and frequency counts were performed.

Results: 1687 articles were identified through four databases. The final inclusion consisted of 34 studies. Articles were classified by determinants of heat exposure risks: core body temperature (direct and indirect), scoring scale including core body temperature, scoring scale including human perception, and others. Heart rate and rectal temperature were the two most utilized physiological measurements.

Conclusion: A significant amount of literature examined estimation of core temperature using non-invasive methods, sometimes integrated into wearables. Heat-stress management practices could include perceptual measures to better evaluate heat-strain.

Keywords: Core body temperature; Personal protective equipment; Wearables.