I Thermal Stress in Helicopter Pilots : Evaluation of Two Survival

On the Norwegian coastline, sea temperatures are low throughout the year, and the personnel operating Sea King rescue helicopters are required to wear survival suits during over-sea flights. Paradoxically, this may lead to a situation where the pilots are subject to heat stress during flight (1). Thermal stress may result in fatigue and impaired pilot performance, which may raise the risk of pilot error and reduce flight safety. The aim of this study was to evaluate the thermal stress experienced by pilots wearing survival suits during helicopter flights. We also wished to compare two different clothing ensembles currently in use by the helicopter personnel in the Norwegian Air Force.