Physiological Evaluation of Subjects Exposed to a Cold Water Environment while Wearing Different Protective Suit Assemblies
Abstract
The physiological responses of two volunteer subjects exposed to an extreme cold water environment (0C) while wearing the 3/16 inch Chloroprene Wet Suit, 1/8 inch Chloroprene Wet Suit, and the Polyvinyl Chloride Wet Suit were investigated under two conditions of use: constant immersion-flotation (COND I) and immersion-flotation for a two-minute period followed by raft occupancy (COND II). In view of exposure duration ranging from 0.5-1.0 hr and from 2.0-3.0 hr under CONDITIONS I and II, respectively, the results indicate that survival and tissue damage protection is afforded, within expected limits of time under both emergency conditions for search and recovery, by any of the clothing assemblies tested. It is recommended, therefore, that the 1/8 inch Chloroprene Wet Suit be considered as the most acceptable on the basis of such physical characteristics as reduced weight and bulk.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 15, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0724617
Entities
People
- Louis J. Santa Maria
- Meredith H. Radliff
Organizations
- Naval Air Warfare Center Warminster