Investigation of the Requirement for Auxiliary Heating of Canadian Forces Personnel.
Abstract
In order to investigate the requirement for auxiliary heating by the Canadian Forces, a questionnaire was administered to approximately 1500 CF personnel with experience working outdoors in cold weather. In addition to analyzing the respondents' actual replies, the authors also interpreted the completed questionnaires regarding the need for auxiliary heat. It was concluded that auxiliary heating would be beneficial to more than 50% of personnel with problems associated with working in the cold and that most of these problems were due to cold extremities (hands and feet). In the past, various auxiliary heating devices (handwarmers, electrically-heated gloves and socks, etc.) have been assessed for potential application in military operations in cold weather. Many of these assessments have been ad hoc trials of items 'off-the-shelf' which, because of the design, physiological factors, or special military requirements involved, were poorly suited to the needs of the military. Certain delegates at NATO R&D conferences have shown a continuing interest in the potential of auxiliary heating, and a continuing concern that a systems approach be employed to provide better equipment and a better understanding of the applications and limitations of auxiliary heating.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA151950
Entities
People
- R. W. Nolan
- S. D. Livingstone
- S. W. Cattroll
Organizations
- Defence Research and Development Canada