Complex Performance During Exposure to High Temperatures

Abstract

Abstract : The effects of high temperature on psychomotor performance and physiological function were studied on male pilots (age 30-51) holding a current medical certificate. A total of 41 runs were made at neutral (23.8C (75F), or hot (60.0C (140F), 71.1C (160F)) temperatures with low humidities (less than 20 mm. Hg at 60.0 and 71.1C). Heart rate (ECG), deep body temperature (rectal probe) and skin temperature were recorded at 2-minute intervals. Performance on a complex performance device (two-dimensional tracking, mental arithmetic, and monitoring) was scored for 5-minute intervals which varied in task difficulty. During exposure to 71.1C mean rectal temperature reached 38.05C (100.5F), mean peak heart rate was 132 beats/min., and mean finger temperature peaked at 42C (107.6F). There were significant decrements in performance (tracking and mental arithmetic) at 71.1C at 60.0C there were no performance decrements during 30 minutes of exposure. Results are discussed as they apply to aircrew in high performance aircraft. (Author)