The effect of cooling vests on physiological and perceptual responses: a systematic review

Abstract

Humans in hot environments are exposed to health risks and thermal discomfort which seriously affect their physical, physiological and mental workload. This study aimed to assess the effects of using cooling vests (CVs) on physiological and perceptual responses in the workplace. Three main databases were searched using subject headings and appropriate Mesh terms. The article has been written according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews checklist. A total of 23,837 studies were identified for screening and 63 studies were eligible for data extraction. A statistically significant difference was observed in body temperature among hybrid cooling garments (HBCGs), phase-change materials (PCMs) and air-cooled garments (ACGs) at 31.56-37 °C (60 relative humidity), evaporative cooling garments at 25.8-28.1 °C and liquid cooling garments at 35 °C (49 relative humidity) compared to without CVs (p < 0.001). HBCGs (PCMs and ACGs) are effective means in hot, moderate, humid or dry environments.