Self-Pacing as a Protective Mechanism against the Effects of Heat Stress

Methods: Heart rate and aural temperature were monitored in 150 subjects for 12 h daily over 2 consecutive days. Environmental parameters were measured for quantification of heat stress by the thermal work limit. Results: There was no evidence of an effect of variation in environmental thermal stress on either average working heart rate or aural temperature. Conclusion: These studies provide evidence that self-pacing is a protective response to working in heat which does not require a highly informed workforce; recognition of this should form part of a holistic approach to management of heat stress in hot climates.