Studying the effect of heat stress on attention and reaction time in a laboratory setting

Abstract

Introduction: Heat stress is one of the Hazardous physical agents in the workplace, which can cause impairment of cognitive performance. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of different levels of heat stress on attention and reaction time in a laboratory condition. Material and Method: This experimental study was done among 33 students included 17 males and 16 females. Mean age of the participants was 22.1(SD=2.3). Attention and reaction time parameters were evaluated using the continuous performance test and reaction time measurement device respectivlely, after exposure to different heat levels (22 degrees C and 37 degrees C). Data were analyzed using ANOVA test and SPSS 20 software. Result: The results of tests attention and reaction time showed that the average of attention percentage was decreased and the average of reaction time increased by increasing the heat level, with a statistical differences of (P < 0.001) in both cases. Attention percent in terms of exposure to 22 degrees C temperature was significantly higher than 37 degrees C (P < 0.001). But, reaction time was significantly higher than with the exposure to 37 degrees C temperature than 22 degrees C ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that, heat by increasing reaction time and decreasing attention leading to an impairment in the individual's cognitive performances. Therefore, in jobs such as control rooms and various industries that need attention, concentration and quick reaction, it is necessary to consider and optimize the heat conditions in order to increase the level of attention and decrease of reaction time.