Physiological and cognitive function when auxiliary cooling is used during an exercising heat stress

Authors

Joanne N. Caldwell, University of WollongongFollow
Nigel A. S. Taylor, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

19973

Publication Details

Caldwell, J. N. & Taylor, N. A. S. Physiological and cognitive function when auxiliary cooling is used during an exercising heat stress. In: Mekjavic, I. B., Kounalakis, S. N. & Taylor, N. A. S. editors. Environmental Ergonomics XII. Proceedings of the Twelfth International Conference on Environmental Ergonomics; Ljubljana, Slovenia: Biomed d.o.o.; 2007. 399-402.

Abstract

When exposed to environmental heat stress, one’s ability to perform physical and mental tasks can be compromised. In relation to a helicopter pilot, a slight decrement in flight performance can result in devastating consequences. Previously, Froom et al. (1993) found environmental heat stress elevated pilot error, whilst Caldwell et al. (2005) have described impaired flight simulator performance during progressive hyperthermia. Such changes can reflect reduced cognitive function, and Faerevik and Reinertsen (2003) have shown that heat stress can contribute to deficits in both vigilance and multi-choice reaction time. Presumably, the use of biological and chemical (BC) protective clothing will exacerbate this state.

Link to publisher version (URL)

Environmental Ergonomics Conference