Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles (한국의류학회지)

The Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles (한국의류학회)
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Effects of Design and Material Change of Firefighter Station Uniform on Thermal Physiological and Subjective Responses

소방 기동복의 디자인과 소재 변화가 착용자의 온열생리 반응 및 주관적 감각에 미치는 영향

  • Kim, Hee-Eun (Dept. of Clothing and Textiles, College of Human Ecology, Kyungpook National University/Center for Beautiful Aging, Kyungpook National University) ;
  • Kim, Seong-Suk (Dept. of Clothing and Textiles, College of Human Ecology, Kyungpook National University) ;
  • Son, Su-Young (Dept. of Home Economics Education, Teachers College, Kyungpook National University)
  • 김희은 (경북대학교 생활과학대학 의류학과/경북대학교 장수생활과학연구소) ;
  • 김성숙 (경북대학교 생활과학대학 의류학과) ;
  • 손수영 (경북대학교 사범대학 가정교육과)
  • Received : 2020.05.29
  • Accepted : 2020.07.20
  • Published : 2020.08.31
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Abstract

This study investigated physiological and subjective responses to different types of firefighter station uniforms made with various designs and materials. Six healthy males participated in this study that consisted of 20 min of rest, 30 min of treadmill exercise, and 30 min of recovery in a hot and humid environment (34℃ and 65%RH). The experimental clothing conditions were as follows. 1) a fitted T-shirt and trouser made of 100% polyester (FC-Uniform), and 2) flame retardant T-shirts made of acrylic and cotton as well as trousers with aramid and polyester, designed for overfitting (Control). There were no significant differences in the body temperature, and sweat rate between the two conditions; however, the heart rate with the FC-Uniform was significantly lower than Control (p=.025). The clothing microclimate temperature at the chest of the FC-Uniform was significantly lower than the Control (p=.037), and a difference of 1℃ was maintained until the recovery was complete. There were no significant differences in the subjective responses; however, participants experienced a humidity sensation faster with FC-Uniform in the recovery phase. The results indicate that changes in the design and material of firefighter station uniforms may have a positive influence on reducing the thermal stress of firefighters.

Keywords

References

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