Thermal imaging for the operator's comfort assessment in the aspect of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The article aims to preliminary analyze and identify the working conditions of an operator wearing disposable personal protective equipment and features and usability of the suit. The characteristics of the thermal image for an operator wearing a personal protection suit will be used as part of the IT system for comfort assessment. The system will allow the assessment of the operator's comfort based on thermograms. It will also detect dangerous situations resulting from the operator's work in such an outfit or overalls. The hazardous conditions for operators are related to the symptoms of thermal discomfort leading to overheating the body and, consequently, fainting. These situations may cause accidents and reduce the quality of the activities performed. The current legal status was considered when referring to selected social aspects in the management and quality of work of an operator wearing a COVID-19 protective suit. References are made to documents on legislative acts in Poland and Europe to limit the risk from biological agents. This part of the article refers to a vital study by Majchrzycka and Okrasa (2019, the Central Institute for Labor Protection - National Research Institute) presenting the rules for the safe use of non-biocidal respiratory protective equipment. This included obligations of the employer. The employer is obliged to take preventive measures against exposition of employees to harmful biological agents, including airtight measures and personal protective equipment. The article emphasizes selected medical aspects of working in personal protective clothing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Referring to the study (Sobolewski, 2014), according to the authors, the presented case reflects the working conditions of an operator wearing a disposable protective suit. Microclimate parameters and changing metabolism define the hot thermal environment in the mentioned standard. The article presents the results of thermovision inspection of the operator of technical means of transport working in a suit protecting against COVID-19 infection, constituting one-off personal protection. The individual elements included in the protective set of disposable personal protection have been described. The following research stage is preparing thermograms, which show the operator in a protective case before, during, and after work. Thermograms have been classified and commented on.