An innovative method of evaluating the association of heat exposure and heart rate variability in a panel of agricultural workers with small and lightweight personal sensors

This study addresses critical knowledge gaps in occupational heat exposure research by employing innovative exposure and epidemiological methodologies to assess personal WBGT exposure and its association with HRV in agricultural workers. The findings highlight substantial discrepancies between ambient and personal WBGT levels. By integrating advanced sensors and the OSHA-approved Liljegren equations to obtain WBGT, this study establishes a scalable framework for researchers and policymakers worldwide to accurately assess heat exposure, exposure-health relationships, and intervention strategies. These insights are particularly valuable for protecting agricultural workers as climate change intensifies occupational heat stress, thus fostering resilience in vulnerable populations and promoting overall health.