Most Athletic Trainers are aware of and are using the Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) and are taking advantage of their thermometers on the sidelines during these hot months.
But we wanted to compile information about WBGT and even create an infographic for Athletic Trainers to print up or share online!
First, a little bit more about the topic... to cover our bases:
Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is an index used to measure the risk of heat illnesses due to environmental conditions. It is a composite temperature used to estimate the effect of temperature, humidity, wind speed (wind chill), and solar radiation on humans. The WBGT is derived from three separate measurements:
- Dry Bulb Temperature (DBT): This is the temperature of the air, which we commonly think of as "air temperature." It's what most thermometers would show.
- Wet Bulb Temperature (WBT): This is measured by a thermometer with its bulb wrapped in a wet cloth. It provides an estimate of the cooling effect of evaporation from the skin and can be influenced by both temperature and humidity.
- Globe Temperature (GT): Measured by a thermometer inside a black globe (hence the name). It gauges the effects of solar radiation. The black globe absorbs sunlight and can indicate the added heat load on an athlete due to the sun.
The WBGT is then calculated using a weighted combination of these measurements:
WBGT = 0.7 WBT + 0.2 GT + 0.1 DBT
How Athletic Trainers are Using WBGT to Protect Athletes:
- Activity Modification: Based on the WBGT readings, Athletic Trainers may adjust the intensity and duration of practices. For instance, during high WBGT readings, the practice times might be reduced, or more frequent breaks might be incorporated.
- Hydration: Readings can also help ATs determine hydration needs. Higher readings may lead to more frequent water breaks and closer monitoring of athletes for signs of dehydration.
- Acclimatization: Particularly at the beginning of sports seasons, athletes need time to acclimatize to heat conditions. If WBGT readings are high, Athletic Trainers might suggest to have athletes progressively increase the intensity and duration of training over several days to allow them to get used to the conditions.
- Clothing Adjustments: In certain conditions, ATs might advise athletes to adjust their clothing. For example, removing pads, helmets, or heavy equipment on high WBGT reading days.
- Education: Athletic Trainers often use WBGT readings to educate coaches, athletes, and other staff about the risks associated with various environmental conditions.
- Decision-making for Events: In some situations, based on WBGT readings, events or practices might be postponed or canceled to ensure the safety of the athletes.
By integrating WBGT readings into your protocols, you can make informed decisions that prioritize the health and safety of athletes in varying environmental conditions.
Here's a downloadable infographic that we created with some simple suggestions that you can share with teams, coaches, family members, and ADs: