The Relationship between heat Stress Indicators (WBGT and DI) Indices and Human productivity in a Hospital

Background and aims:Heat stress is a occupational major problem in Iranshahr city, which can lead to undesirable effects on health and reduce the productivity of people. This article examines this problem and its effects in different parts of Iran's Hospital in this city. Methods:This cross-sectional study was performed on 181 employees of different departments of a hospital in different periods of 9 am and 12 noon. Two WBGT and DI indices were used to investigate heat stress and thermal discomfort. Also to survey of human productivity Hersey and Goldsmit scale was used. Finally to study of relationship between the WBGT and DI with human productivity and its subscales, Pearson correlation was applied. Results:The results showed that at 9 am the highest average of WBGT and DI indices were obtained for installation powerhouse1 and generator2 units, respectively.And the lowest amount of these indices were for pharmacy and administrative units. Also at 12 noon, the highest amount of these indices was for the powerhouse2 and generator 2 units respectively.At the same time, the lowest amount of these indices were obtained for NICU and pharmacy respectively.The results of Pearson correlation coefficient showed that WBGT and DI indices had a reverse and significant relationship with human productivity (P<0.05). Conclusion:According to the results of this study,the mentioned hospital needs to design and correct the ventilation system in order to provide suitable thermal conditions and in accordance with international standards in order to reduce heat stress and increase the productivity and efficiency of individuals.