Heat exposure study in the workplace in a glass manufacturing unit in India

Ann Occup Hyg. 2000 Sep;44(6):449-53.

Abstract

The heat exposure for working conditions in coastal areas of tropical and subtropical countries like India is a crucial factor in improved qualitative and quantitative production. The hot climate augments the heat exposure close to sources like furnaces. In the present work heat exposure to workers in glass manufacturing units in a coastal area of India has been assessed. The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), the Corrected Effective Temperature (CET) and Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT) were measured. The WBGT values much exceeded ACGIH TLVs. A revision of these standards to suit tropical and subtropical conditions is required. The recommended durations of work and rest have been estimated.

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Monitoring* / methods
  • Glass*
  • Heat Stress Disorders / etiology*
  • Heat Stress Disorders / prevention & control
  • Hot Temperature*
  • Humans
  • India
  • Industry*
  • Occupational Diseases / etiology*
  • Occupational Diseases / prevention & control
  • Occupational Exposure / analysis*
  • Occupational Exposure / prevention & control
  • Occupational Health
  • Rest
  • Temperature
  • Time Factors
  • Tropical Climate
  • Workload
  • Workplace*