We all learned in science class that homeostasis is the self-regulating process by which our bodies maintain stability. One of the most important functions of homeostasis is the regulation of body temperature, which is called thermoregulation. Thermoregulation is the homeostatic process that allows the human body to maintain its core internal temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius.
All thermoregulation mechanisms, such as sweating and shivering, are designed to return the body to its internal core temperature. If a worker’s internal core temperature is compromised while working in hot and humid working conditions, the worker becomes vulnerable to heat stress or heat induced illnesses. According to OSHA, thousands of workers are negatively impacted by heat stress each year and some even die from it.