Physiological and perceptual responses to forearm immersion in cold water

Endeavours to determine the physiological and perceptual responses to forearm cold water immersion as influenced by the use of an experimental fireproof carbonaceous insulation (ECI), Thinsulate (a commercial insulation), and Nomex flight gloves. The primary objective was to determine if ECI could provide adequate protection from cold water immersion while providing superior protection from fire. Physiological responses including rectal and skin temperatures to –1 degree C water were recorded. Perceptions of thermal discomfort and grip strength were also measured. The experimental carbonaceous insulation was able to provide better thermal protection as evidenced by significantly higher skin temperatures than the Thinsulate. Subjects perceived the Thinsulate gloves to be only slightly more comfortable than the ECI gloves. Both ECI and Thinsulate provided negligible loss of grip strength. The Nomex gloves provided virtually no thermal protection and substantial loss of grip strength post‐immersion.