Task-dependent cold stress during expeditions in Antarctic environments

Abstract

This study seeks to understand the degree of body cooling, cold perception and physical discomfort during Antarctic tour excursions.Eight experienced expedition leaders across three Antarctic cruise voyages were monitored during occupational tasks: kayaking, snorkelling and zodiac outings. Subjective cold perception and discomfort were recorded using a thermal comfort assessment and skin temperature was recorded using a portable data logger. Indoor cabin temperature and outdoor temperature with wind velocity were used as measures of environmental stress. Physical activity level and clothing insulation were estimated using previous literature.Tour leaders experienced a 6°C (2°C wind chill) environment for an average of 6 hours each day. Leaders involved in kayaking reported feeling colder and more uncomfortable than other leaders, but zodiac leaders showed greater skin temperature cooling. Occupational experience did not predict body cooling or cold stress perception.These findings indicate that occupational cold stress varies by activity and measurement methodology. The current study effectively used objective and subjective measures of cold-stress to identify factors which can contribute to risk in the Antarctic tourism industry. Results suggest that the type of activity may moderate risk of hypothermia, but not discomfort, potentially putting individuals at risk for cognitive related mistakes and cold injuries.

Human adaptative behavior to Antarctic conditions: A review of physiological aspects

“…Attention is diverted to the discomfort of cold, affecting the performance of tasks that require attention and vigilance. Although safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) aim to minimize the risk of hypothermia, thermal discomfort remains an important cause of accidents, the number of which increases with decreasing temperatures (Morris et al, 2017). In addition, the most frequent signs and symptoms in workers exposed to cold involve the respiratory tract, cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system, and skin.…”

Human psychophysiology in Antarctica

“…Task performance under 10°C for durations higher than 2 h can adversely affect physiological well-being. [16] Disturbance in the normal levels of the hypothalamicpituitary-thyroid axis has been reported in the polar sojourners. [17,18] A decrease in total and free triiodothyronine thyroid hormone with increased thyroid-stimulating hormone.…”

Sleep and Organizational Behavior: Implications for Workplace Productivity and Safety

“…Another challenge to the endogenous circadian rhythm occurs in workers in the circumpolar regions where sun light exposure and temperature change dramatically due to seasonal variation which also impact sleep habits and can negatively affect alertness and performance (Lan et al, 2017;Morris et al, 2017b). For example, seasonal affective disorder can occur in individuals exposed to extreme changes in environmental conditions, such as dramatic changes in sun light exposure (Rosenthal et al, 1984).…”