An experimental study investigating differences in acclimatization capacity and thermal preference between university students and older workers

This experimental study aims to test thermal response and the ability acclimatize during discomfort conditions of different age groups. Experiments were conducted in late summer with thirteen participants, including university students older workers, exposed a climate chamber temperature increasing from 22°C 28°C decreasing 16°C, at rate 3.5K/h. Participants adjusted their clothing stay thermally neutral 22°C. After that, they not allowed change ramps. Subjects rated comfort, preference, acceptability Skin was measured two points monitor processes vasoconstriction. Older workers showed higher vasoconstriction both ramps due more rapid significant cooling extremities. However, tolerance for cold ramp, suggesting that might physically suffer but be less aware it. During hot greater variability psychological response, although comparable mean values suggest neutrality remain similar age. For this reason, percentage dissatisfied among could despite temperatures. The results highlight need extend experiments collect further data on workers' acclimatization capacity preferences.