A new study on Heat Stress, Reliable Industrial Measurement of Core Body Temperature, commissioned by British Glass, aims to establish a consistent relationship between core body temperature and that of the tympanic membrane of the ear in order to identify a non-intrusive method of monitoring workers’ core body temperature.
Currently, the only reliable method for establishing an individual’s core body temperature has been the use of rectal thermometers or through the use of the temperature-sensitive intra-gastric-pill – neither of which are feasible in most industrial environments where the threat of heat stress can be a real concern.
The findings will provide employers with a valuable tool for measuring the extent of any heat stress/strain, confirming the effectiveness of existing control measures or enabling them to refine measures as necessary.
The study is being conducted by the Institute of Occupational Medicine Ltd (IOM) and is co-funded by IOSH and backed by HSE and a growing number of trade unions, trade federations and individual companies.
Participation in the study is free to any company with hot-work processes and monitoring exercises are conducted whilst individuals conduct their usual day- to-day activities – incurring minimal disruption to work activities.
To become involved with this study, or for more information, please contact Philip Marsh, UK health & safety manager at British Glass, by calling 0114 290 1850, or by email, please click here.
