Environment International Volume 22, Issue 1 , 1996, pp. 33-52
The subterranean work environment: impact on well-being and health
R. Kuller, L. Wetterberg
Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to compare subterranean environments with environments above ground. More specifically, the study focused on the impact of reduced diurnal and seasonal variations and reduced sensory stimulation for persons working underground. The spaces below ground were perceived to be more enclosed, the lighting was considered to be less bright and less pleasant, and there were complaints of visual fatigue. Light measurements showed that the illuminances were on the average twice as high in the offices above ground. There was somewhat more noise in the subterranean environments. The level of morning cortisol displayed a substantial annual variation in personnel above ground, whereas the annual variation below ground was much less pronounced. Also, the afternoon level of cortisol was lower for the personnel working in the subterranean environments. The concentration of melatonin was almost three times higher during nighttime than during daytime, and this diurnal variation (amplitude) was much larger in the underground personnel. The personnel working underground slept almost half an hour more every night. Concerning illness, there was no overall difference, but the annual incidence patterns were distinctly different.
Link to:
The influence of light on circarhythms in humans
The impact of flicker from fluorescent lighting on well-being, performance and physiological arousal
Shortness of daylight as a reason for fatigue and sadness. A cross-cultural comparison
The subterranean work environment: impact on well-being and health
© 2003 Prof. Ricard Kuller