Heat Strain during at-Sea Helicopter Operations in a High Heat Environment and the Effect of Passive Microclimate Cooling
Abstract
High heat loads due to engine exhaust intake and high ambient temperatures within a helicopter fuselage during flight, specifically hover, have resulted in reported episodes of symptomatic heat strain among aircrew. An in-flight study was conducted to assess: (a) fuselage ambient temperature during Navy H-3 helicopter at-sea operations in a high heat environment (Persian Gulf); (b) presence or absence of any cardiac strain or excessive physiological heat load; and (c) effectiveness of reducing these responses by wearing a protective cooling (ice) vest.(IV). METHODS. Twelve helicopter aircrew were monitored (heart rate (HR) and skin (SK) and rectal (RT) temperature) in both IV and non- IV conditions during flight while wearing standard flight equipment. CONCLUSIONS. Aircrew performing at-sea helicopter operations in an area of high ambient heat are subject to heat loads that may produce heat stress conditions that can result in marked cardiac and thermal regulatory strain. Wearing of a protective cooling vest appears to reduce this threat.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA242152
Entities
People
- Daniel E. Braun
- Guy R. Banta
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center