Evaluation of heat stress in dry cleaner units:A case study in Qom, Iran

Background & Aims of the Study: Nowadays, heat stress is one of the most harmful physical agents in workplaces. According to the consequences of heat stress and have no information about it in Qom dry cleaner units, Iran, this study have been designed to evaluate the heat stress among workers of dry cleaner units in Qom province of Iran, in Jul-Aug 2011. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 113 units of active dry cleaner units. WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) index was selected for heat stress evaluation. In order to measure the requisite parameters, WBGT meter made of Casella Company had been used according to ISO 7243. Data had been analyzed according to Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) with SPSS V.16, using analysis of variance, independent T and LSD tests. Results: The average of WBGT index in Qom dry cleaner units of Iran were 28.98&plusmn;1.64 &deg;C. The average of WBGT index in 66.4% of units was up to 28&deg;C. The average of relative humidity was 42.86%, the average of wet bulb temperature and globe temperature were 25.56&deg;C and 36.72&deg;C, respectively. The findings showed a significant correlation between the average of WBGT index and the standard recommendation level (p<0.0001). In dry cleaner units with less than 10 m2 area, heat stress was higher than other units &nbsp;significantly (p<0.05). Conclusions: Heat stress in many dry cleaner units in Qom, Iran, was more than recommended OELs. Because of wet bulb and globe temperature in units were high value, the most important measures to heat controls, are technical engineering controls such as &nbsp;radiation shield, insulation on boilers and modify the cooling systems.