What is the impact on workers' health from alternating exposure to high and low temperatures?

When workers are exposed to alternating high and low temperatures, the most impactful consequence is often an increased psychological workload. This form of exposure can create stress as workers must continuously adjust to extreme changes in temperature. The body’s thermoregulatory system becomes challenged as it strives to maintain a stable internal temperature, which can lead to discomfort and a heightened mental load as workers must concentrate on coping with these environmental extremes.

In a work environment that requires physical exertion, this stress can be compounded, potentially leading to fatigue and reduced concentration. As workers manage these thermal fluctuations, their cognitive resources are taxed, affecting their overall efficiency and well-being.

Understanding the impact of temperature variations on psychological preparedness can help in designing work environments that minimize stress, ensuring that workers can perform at optimal levels while maintaining their health.