Biographical Sketch

A number of occupations require routine exposures to extreme temperature conditions, such as fire fighters; hazardous materials handlers; forestry, agricultural, construction, and military personnel; and others. Persons performing job tasks in these extreme environments are at risk for the development of heat related injuries and illnesses. Additionally, a number of athletic training camps are positioned in extreme temperature and humidity conditions, and the increase in the number of heat related incidents have prompted concerns. Micro-climate cooling products, such as commercially available gel or water based vests, have been developed to reduce the risk of heat stress and heat related injuries and illnesses by reducing core body temperature and heart rate either during or following work in hot environments (Bennett et al, 1995; Chen et al, 1997). However, no national standards or minimum performance standards currently exist for commercially micro-climate cooling products. Additionally, testing performed on these types of devices has been task specific (primarily military operation specific), making generalization of findings to industrial occupations or recreational activities difficult. The objectives of this study were to evaluate cooling effectiveness of three such micro-climate cooling products during exercise protocols; more specifically to: (1) determine cooling capacit