Evaluation of Environmental, Physiological, and Perceptual Heat Indices among Underground Mine Workers

Heat exposure is known as a harmful agent in work places. This agent causes physiologic changes in workers. The aim of this study was to assess environmental, physiological, and perceptual heat indices among underground mine workers.
This cross-sectional study was performed on 64 healthy men in summer. Physiological Strain Index (PSI) and Wet Bulb Glob Temperature (WBGT) were measured. Heat Strain Score Index (HSSI) questionnaire was completed by workers. The data were analyzed using SPSS software.
Findings: The means of PSI, WBGT, and HSSI indices showed that there was a little heat strain among the workers. One-way ANOVA test showed that the mean of PSI had significant difference in the HSSI levels. Pearson test showed that there was no significant correlation between WBGT and PSI (P = 0.791); but correlation was meaningful between HSSI and PSI (P The results showed that HSSI can be used as a screening tool for heat strain assessment among underground mines workers.