Overview
ISO/TS 13732-2:2001 is an international technical specification developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that focuses on ergonomics in the thermal environment. Specifically, it provides principles and methods for assessing human responses when body parts-such as the hand, foot, or while sitting-are in contact with solid surfaces at moderate surface temperatures (approximately 10 °C to 40 °C). The standard addresses how individuals perceive thermal comfort or discomfort during these contacts, offering guidance for designers, manufacturers, and facility managers to predict and manage thermal sensations that arise from human contact with everyday surfaces in homes, workplaces, and public spaces.
Key Topics
- Principles for Predicting Thermal Sensation: Guidelines for assessing how human skin, upon contact with various surfaces at moderate temperatures, perceives warmth or coolness.
- Factors Influencing Thermal Perception: The impact of ambient temperature, skin temperature, contact duration, contact pressure, and surface material (e.g., metal, wood, plastic) on thermal sensation.
- Body Segment Consideration: Methods for evaluating different scenarios, such as handrails (hands), floor contact (feet), and sitting positions (buttocks and thighs).
- Thermal Properties of Materials: The relevance of contact coefficient and thermal diffusivity in determining how materials feel upon touch.
- Heat Source Effects: Differentiation between surfaces with and without active heating or cooling elements, including special attention to electrically heated floors versus water-based systems.
- Discomfort Thresholds: Guidance on recognizing the limits of comfort based on material type, temperature, and duration of contact.
Applications
The methods and recommendations in ISO/TS 13732-2:2001 are highly applicable in a variety of sectors where the thermal comfort and safety of users are priorities, including:
- Building and Interior Design: Guiding material selection and temperature management for floors, furniture, handles, and handrails to enhance occupant comfort in homes, offices, schools, and healthcare facilities.
- Product Design: Influencing the design of hand tools, vehicle interiors, and domestic appliances where direct skin contact is frequent and comfort is essential.
- Workplace Ergonomics: Helping assess and minimize discomfort risks in industrial or commercial settings where workers may frequently touch surfaces.
- Floor Heating and Cooling Systems: Assisting HVAC engineers and architects in setting recommended temperature ranges for floor-based heating or cooling to prevent discomfort or potential safety hazards.
- Childcare and Elderly Care: Minimizing the risk of skin injury or discomfort for vulnerable populations, such as children or the elderly, who may spend extended periods in contact with floors or furniture.
Related Standards
- ISO/TS 13732-1: Ergonomics of the thermal environment-Methods for the assessment of human responses to contact with surfaces-Part 1: Human contact with hot surfaces. Focuses on the risks and responses related to hotter surfaces.
- EN 563: Safety of machinery-Temperatures of touchable surfaces-Ergonomics data to establish temperature limit values for hot surfaces.
- DIN 52614: Testing of Thermal Insulations-Determination of Heat Dissipation of Floors, referenced for measuring energy loss and evaluating floor comfort levels.
Practical Value
ISO/TS 13732-2:2001 provides a scientific framework for understanding and predicting how people experience thermal sensations through contact with everyday objects and surfaces in the moderate temperature range. By following its guidelines, designers and facility managers can create safer and more comfortable environments, reduce risks of thermal discomfort, and enhance user wellbeing in public and private spaces. The standard supports the integration of ergonomic principles in the selection of materials and design of temperature-controlled environments, ensuring compliance with international best practices for thermal comfort.
Open preview (PDF)Ergonomics of the thermal environment — Methods for the assessment of human responses to contact with surfaces — Part 2: Human contact with surfaces at moderate temperature
