Heat Stress Limits for the Sedentary Worker

Abstract

Performance on four sedentary tasks was monitored during temperatures of 85 degrees f, 95 degrees F, and 105 degrees F WBGT for work periods up to 2 hours. Results were compared with limits recommedned for occupational safety and health regulations. It is suggested that this limit is not a single line, but rather a range of temperture-time combinations. Further, man's compensating nature during short exposures supports a higher temperature limit for brief work bouts.