Environmental Extremes Laboratory

Product testing

We use our in-depth knowledge, research and sport and exercise science theory and application to test  products’ validity, reliability, efficacy and safety within the controlled settings of our laboratories.

We can provide support at all stages of the product design process, from helping to establish proof of concept, prototype trials, through to getting the product to market.

Some of our recent physiological product testing include; Micro Scooter, Field Wiz GPS, CAERvest and KuduSmart. 

CAERvest® being tested.

Performance consultation

Whether you are undertaking a unique challenge in extreme conditions, or training to compete at altitude or in severe heat, we have the facilities and the experience to help you train and prepare. 

We are experienced in providing support for both professional athletes and individuals and teams embarking on charitable expeditions.

We also work with athletes preparing for and acclimatise to extreme environments and have experience working with English Athletics preparing athletes for training camps, and the GB Bobsleigh team.

Environmental chamber

By controlling the ambient temperature (-20 to +50°C) and relative humidity (20 to 95 per cent), our environmental chamber can be used to simulate different climates. It can also be used to  examine how the body copes during extreme environments, investigating:

• heat acclimation programmes
• cold exposure survival
• pre-cooling strategies.

Hypoxic chamber

Our hypoxic chamber allows exercise in an environment with reduced oxygen levels (11 – 20% oxygen), thereby simulating the effects of high altitude (17000ft – 5000m). We can assess and investigate:

• hypoxic training
• screening for susceptibility to acute mountain sickness
• mountain climbing preparation.

Susceptibility screening

We can assess and determine how you will respond towards heat stress, cold exposure and altitude elevation. Using specialised equipment we can measure cardiovascular, thermoregulatory, metabolic heat production, energy expenditure, oxygen saturation, hydration status, haematology (haemoglobin, haematocrit and plasma volume) and sudomotor (sweat rate and concentration) functions, as well as psychological feeling states within each extreme environment.

The initial screening session will provide information on how your body will cope within stressful situations and determine strategies to alleviate the detrimental physiological strain during training, competition and expeditions. Bespoke reports including and training intervention advice leading up to the competition or expedition will be provided.

Pre-cooling and heat acclimation

By exposing your body to artificial environmental conditions that match those you will encounter you can help you body adapt. The more exposures to extreme conditions you experience the better you will adapt. Protocols for exposure vary in intensity, duration and environmental conditions. We offer a short (five day) and long (ten day) programmes, which will be tailored to your requirements.

Acclimation: Preparing you for the challenge

Altitude training increases red blood cell volume and haemoglobin formation, which allows greater volumes of oxygen delivery at sea level. These procedures will lead to lower physiological strains and enhance performance.

Hot at work 

Occupationally, we have informed National Fire Service Guidelines to improve health of staff exposed to severe heat. Our product testing with Bodychillz Ltd. developed the CAERvest® that has saved lives and we have supported other companies from proof-of-concept stage through to prototype evaluation.

Heat acclimation reduces rest and exercise core temperature (0.2-0.8°C) and heart rate, expands plasma volume, increases sweat rate and conserves sodium levels.

Education

We can provide a wide range of seminars related to extreme environments, highlighting the detrimental effects of the high-risk situations during training, competition or expeditions.  

We also offer a unique experience for students studying GCSE, BTEC and A-Level physical education and sports science. 

Working with schools and colleges in a number of different ways, we can help to improve sport and exercise in schools, and bring the subject to life for students.

If you are from educational establishment and are interest in expanding your curriculum experience, contact us to find out how we can work with you.