EFFECTS OF THERMAL STRESS ON HUMAN PERFORMANCE: A REVI EW AND CRITIQUE OF EXISTING METHODOLOGY R. Douglas Jones

A critical review of the literature provides the basis for an analysis of the effects of thermal stress on human performance. Research in this area to date reflects a wide divergence of opinion regarding the magnitude, direction and significance of performance changes occurring under conditions of high temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc. An attempt to resolve major conflicts in experimental findings leads to a detailed examination of such factors as thermal stress indices, exposure times and acclimatization. The role of the subject in thermal stress research is discussed with emphasis on the contribution of such psychological variables as personality and motivation to performance change. Recommendations for future research are advanced.