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  • Title: Effectiveness of a light-weight ice-vest for body cooling while wearing fire fighter's protective clothing in the heat.
    Author: Smolander J, Kuklane K, Gavhed D, Nilsson H, Holmér I.
    Journal: Int J Occup Saf Ergon; 2004; 10(2):111-7. PubMed ID: 15182467.
    Abstract:
    The aim of the study was to examine the effects of wearing an ice-vest (ca 1 kg) on physiological and subjective responses in fire fighters. The experiments were carried out on a treadmill in a hot-dry environment. The physical cooling effect of the ice-vest was measured with a thermal manikin. The ice-vest effectively reduced skin temperatures under the vest. On average, heart rate was 10 beats/min lower, the amount of sweating was reduced by 13%, and subjective sensations of effort and warmth were lower during work with the ice-vest compared to work without it. Thermal manikin tests indicated that the useful energy available from the vest for body cooling was rather high (58%). In conclusion, the ice-vest reduces physiological and subjective strain responses during heavy work in the heat, and may promote efficient work time by 10%.
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