Performance and sensory aspects of work in cold environments: a review

Abstract

Many people are occupationally exposed to cool or cold environments in which human performance and comfort may be affected. Research results on manual function and other performance measures together with certain subjective effects relevant to work in moderate cold are reviewed. The considerable individual differences in reactions to work in the cold are highlighted, and the difficulties in establishing relationships between physiological measures of cooling, performance and sensory reactions are discussed. It is suggested that an integration of these three aspects is a necessary basis for understanding man's reactions to work in the cold and for improving equipment, training and work routines.