Physiological Responses to the Wearing of Fire Fighter's Turnout Gear with Neoprene and GORE-TEX® Barrier Liners

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Abstract
This study examined the physiological effects of performing moderate and high intensity work while wearing fire fighter''s turnout gear with either a neoprene or GORE-TEX barrier liner. Eight healthy men, experienced with the use of respirators and protective clothing, each performed moderate and high intensity treadmill exercise (44% and 71% of maximum work capacity) in a double-blind study at 27.6% C (50% RH) while wearing complete fire fighter''s turnout gear (weighing 23 kg) with either a neoprene or GORE-TEX barrier liner. Physiological measurements obtained included minute ventilation, heart rate, skin temperature, rectal temperature and sweat rate. Subjective evaluations of perceived exertion, comfort, clothing breathability, temperature and perspiration also were obtained. Tests were terminated (tolerance time) when objective or subjective signs of near maximal stress were observed (i.e. 90% of the maximum heart rate, rectal temperature of 39.degree. C, dizziness, etc.). Mean tolerance times for the moderate intensity exercise were 27.4 (.+-. 7.3 S.D.) and 30.9 (.+-. 7.9) min, respectively, for the neoprene and GORE-TEX barrier liners and at the high intensity were 7.2 (.+-. 2.1) and 7.5 (.+-. 2.3) min, respectively. Analysis of variance indicated that significant differences caused by liner were observed in skin temperature (0.6.degree. C higher with the neoprene ensemble). No significant differences caused by liner were seen in tolerance time, heart rate, sweat rate or subjective ratings. These results suggest that the physiological benefits normally attributed to vapor permeable garments (such as GORE-TEX barrier liners) are minimized when such liners are used in conjunction with fire fighter''s turnout gear during sustained moderate to heavy work in a warm environment.