The effects of indoor thermal environment on cognitive and office work performance
Participants will undergo cognitive tests in a climate chamber under controlled thermal conditions. Phase 1 explores fixed environmental conditions at four temperatures (23, 25, 27, and 29°C). Phase 2 examines performance at 27 °C and 29 °C with adjustable airspeed. Physiological responses such as heart rate variability, skin temperature will be measured as indicators of mental effort.
The hypothesis posits optimal performance at neutral to slightly cool sensations on the ASHRAE 7-point thermal sensation scale (Cold, Cool, Slightly Cool, Neutral, Slightly Warm, Warm, Hot). Findings could inform cost-effective improvements to codes, standards, and regulations for the thermal environments of offices.
# Are there any benefits?
Participants will be compensated in the form of store gift cards ($125). Participants who fully complete all the sessions will be given an additional $55 ($180 total) in the same gift vouchers as a further appreciation of their efforts.
Additionally, by participating you will be contributing to research and knowledge development and helping to promote more energy-efficient and productive work environments for workers in Australia and other countries.
Eligibility
You may be eligible to participate in this study if you are:
- Participants must be aged between 18 and 55 years old.
- Must have fluent English skills (written and spoken).
- Should be familiar with using a computer.
- Must not be pregnant.
- Must not have any chronic cardio-respiratory conditions.
- Must not have sleep disorders.
- Must not have had any major surgeries in the past year.
- Must not use infrared-sensitive medical devices.
- A diverse group of participants is desired. Preference for approximately half of the participants to be female (not a requirement).
How to participate
If you are interested in this exciting research, please fill out your information and we will contact you with session times:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdoGNwjQRjXb1pyHmz-oFuYVQAg16zWXe3my6R9S6VOq_pOQA/viewform
Ethics committee approval number: 2024/HE001846