Heated gloves, socks, shoes, jackets, vests, pants and shoe insoles are available which entail a type of heat pad enclosed within the garments and when connected to a power source - provides heat. It supplements the body’s ability to generate heat especially in cold situations. Battery operated clothing can be powered directly from a vehicles electrical source or through rechargeable lithium, sealed lead or nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries, which can be carried on a belt pack (Gerbing’s Heated Clothing 2007; Warm & Safe Heated Gear 2004).
Workplace solutions and adjustments
For people who have difficulty controlling their core body temperature such as people with Multiple Sclerosis, heated clothing can assist in staying warm, especially if working in cold environments such as refrigerated areas, abattoirs or outdoors during winter (Gerbing’s Heated Clothing 2007; Warm & Safe Heated Gear 2004).
Relevant links
Managing sensitivity to heat
Managing sensitivity to the cold
References
Gerbing’s Heated Clothing 2007, Why is Gerbing's Heated Clothing so Warm?, Gerbing’s Heated Clothing, Washington, viewed 24 August 2007, < http://www.gerbing.com>.
Warm & Safe Heated Gear 2004, For Wheelchair User, Warm & Safe Heated Gear, U.S.A. – specific location not specified, viewed 24 August 2007, < http://www.warmnsafe.com/wheelchair.php>.