Thermoregulatory responses of miners in high-altitude conditions of Kyrgyzstan: seasonal variations and risk factors

Objective: To evaluate the thermoregulatory responses of miners in high-altitude quarries in Kyrgyzstan depending on the season, altitude, and the nature of their physical activity. Materials and Methods: The field study was conducted during the winter and summer seasons at the Kumtor (elevation 4,200 m) and Makmal (elevation 3,000 m) open pit mines. Forty-eight workers participated in the study. The following parameters were measured: body and skin temperature (at seven points), moisture loss, subjective temperature perception, and weather conditions. Results: It was found that during cold periods, physical exertion leads to a significant decrease in average skin temperature (to 25.16°C) while maintaining a stable body temperature. During the warm season, the differences between these parameters are smoothed out. A regression analysis revealed that the subjective sensation of cold and moisture loss during the winter, particularly at Kumtor, are strongly correlated with air temperature (determination coefficient R2=0.97), wind speed, and physical exertion level. Conclusion: High-altitude conditions, especially during the cold season, create significant thermal stress on miners, requiring the development of individual work schedules, acclimatization measures, and thermal protection. The study emphasizes the need to consider climate factors in occupational safety and health in the mining industry. This is especially relevant in the context of global climate change.