Author: Qazaleh BahramianPublisher:
ISBN: 9781303152740
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :
Book Description
California's Central Valley is among the most fertile and productive agricultural venues in the United States. Throughout the year, hundreds of agricultural workers labor here. Their work is an indispensable part of a network that brings food to tables throughout the United States and beyond. Each summer, when temperatures in the valley can exceed 100F, agricultural workers face heat related illnesses (HRI), a serious concern. HRI is caused by external and internal heat sources. External heat sources include radiant heat from the sun and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation; the body's own metabolism creates an internal heat source. California's agricultural workers, laboring under the hot summer sun, usually experience both external and internal heat sources. They are, therefore, at risk for HRI: protecting them is an urgent matter. We all know the value of hydration and seeking shelter in shadier areas when possible to reduce heat stress. Modifying clothing can be another simple measure to reduce the risk of HRI to California's agricultural workers. I investigated several key properties of fabrics and clothing. I determined: we can reduce the risk of HRI among California's agricultural workers by encouraging them to change the way they dress for work. My findings include suggestions on materials and clothing styles to reduce heat stress. Garments with lower heat burden and improved comfort are recommended. This research paper details the analysis relied upon to reach my conclusions. I measured and analyzed the air permeability, porosity, water vapor transmission, and color of clothing. Heat loss and thermal insulation properties of the fabrics were measured using a thermal manikin (Joe!) at the Thermal Insulation Laboratory at Boise State University, Boise, Idaho. The results of lab testing and thermal manikin tests are summarized in the body of the thesis.
