Changes of Wbgt As a Heat Stress Index Over the Time: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Publisher



Kakaei H¹ ; Omidi F² ; Ghasemi R¹ ; Sabet MR¹ ; Golbabaei F¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Urban Climate Published:2019

Abstract

The WBGT index is a common method to evaluate heat stress in the workplaces based on human physiological responses to environmental conditions. This systematic and meta-analysis study was aimed to estimate the mean value of the WBGT index in industries. The search protocol of this study was carried out according to PRISMA checklist. According to the heterogeneity of studies, a meta-analysis was done using a random effects model. The total value of WBGT index in the world according to this study was obtained 28.92 °C (95% CI: 28. 49–29. 35). The results regarding the fixed effect analysis showed that, average WBGT index before and after 2010, was estimated to be 26.63 °C (95% CI: 26.53–26.73) and 29.78 °C (95% CI: 29.71–29.85), respectively. The mean value of WBGT index in the men and women participants were 29.42 and 24.26 °C, respectively. The finding indicated that the average value of WBGT index is rising over time. The reason for this may be attributed to global warming or lack of proper physical work condition in these environments. It would be alarming for the workers who worked in outdoor environments or hot operating conditions. © 2018