BS 7963:2000

This standard BS 7963:2000 Ergonomics of the thermal environment. Guide to the assessment of heat strain in workers wearing personal protective equipment is classified in these ICS categories:

• 13.180 Ergonomics
• 13.340.01 Protective equipment in general
• 13.100 Occupational safety. Industrial hygiene

This British Standard gives guidance on assessing the effects of personal protective equipment (PPE) on heat stress and its consequences for possible heat-related health problems (heat strain). This standard gives guidance on the application of the methods for measuring heat stress given in BS EN 12515:1997 and BS EN 27243:1994 to workers wearing PPE.

NOTE 1 The conditions in which BS EN 12515:1997 and BS EN 27243:1994 are applicable (as outlined in the scope of each of these standards) are not extended by this British Standard.

NOTE 2 Guidance on the application of the methods given in BS EN 12515:1997 and BS EN 27243:1994 to measurement of heat stress in workers wearing PPE is given in annex A and worked examples are given in annex B. Examples of the thermal insulation values of clothing are given in annex C. The theory behind the modifications to the method given in BS EN 12515:1997 for workers wearing PPE is given in annex D.

This British Standard is intended for use by all who:

1. have a responsibility for the health and safety of workers wearing PPE in situations which could lead to heat strain;

2. advise those with this responsibility;

3. provide information to those with this responsibility.

This British Standard applies to all PPE, which includes clothing worn in the workplace to protect the wearer. It does not consider special thermal protective clothing (e.g. water-cooled suits, ventilated suits, heated clothing) because the effect of these items requires special consideration. It does not apply to heat stress in hypo- or hyperbaric environments, or when the body is immersed in water.

This British Standard is not concerned with thermal comfort. Methods for assessing thermal comfort are given in BS EN ISO 7730 and BS ISO 10551.

This British Standard applies to workers wearing PPE in cool and moderate thermal environments, as well as hot environments, as wearing PPE can contribute to heat stress even in cool or moderate thermal environments.