Evaluation of heat stress indices using physiological comparisons in an alumina refinery in a sub-tropical climate

This study was undertaken in the alumina plant situated in Gladstone, Queensland to assess if Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) was the most suitable index for use as a guideline for heat stress. Heat Stress Index (HSI) and Required Sweat Rate (SWreq) were the other indices compared and assessed using physiological monitoring of heart rate and surrogate core temperature. Results were collated and analysed using a computer program written as part of the study for the manipulation of environmental data.