Proposed Standard for a Microclimate Cooling System for Emergency Responder Operations

This document is a proposed standard, developed by the Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center (NSRDEC), that identifies the relevant parameters that define the performance, physical characteristics, and interfaces of a Microclimate Cooling System (MCS), specifically for the Emergency Responder community. MCS have been shown to significantly improve mission duration, reduce the rate of body core temperature rise, and improve the thermal comfort of personnel exposed to heat stress conditions while wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). There are many technologies, products, and systems available that provide a microclimate, or personal, cooling capability. However, there can be significant differences in their thermal performance levels, effectiveness, durability, safety, reliability, and compatibility with PPE. This document also defines the verification methods associated with each performance parameter and identifies the format for reporting the results of each verification event. The intent is to provide a clear means for vendors, distributors, and manufacturers to provide the necessary data and information to the Emergency Responder community on their MCS product(s), and for the Emergency Responder community to identify their cooling requirements based on the environment, PPE being worn, and work levels. The original document contains color images.