Warehouse workers in Osaka, Japan, are using human-sized cooling cabinets to protect themselves from an intense heat wave [1, 2].
The installation of these devices addresses the immediate physical risks posed by extreme temperatures in industrial environments. As heat waves become more frequent, companies are seeking mechanical interventions to prevent heat-related illness among staff.
The device, known as the Hiemon Box, functions as a walk-in refrigerator for people [1, 2]. Once inside, the cabinet blows air at five degrees Celsius [1] to rapidly lower the body temperature of the worker. This allows employees to take brief, high-efficiency cooling breaks before returning to their duties in the warehouse [1, 2].
While the primary goal is worker safety, the technology has also become a commercial success. The device has generated millions of dollars in revenue [2]. This financial growth suggests a growing market for specialized cooling infrastructure in regions facing rising summer temperatures.
The use of the Hiemon Box in Osaka represents a shift toward localized, high-intensity cooling solutions. Rather than attempting to cool an entire warehouse, which is often energy-prohibitive, the system focuses on the individual worker during their rest periods [1].
“The Hiemon Box blows air at five degrees Celsius to rapidly lower the body temperature of the worker.”
The adoption of the Hiemon Box reflects a broader trend of 'spot-cooling' in industrial sectors. By prioritizing the cooling of the person rather than the environment, companies can maintain operational productivity during extreme weather events while reducing the energy costs associated with large-scale HVAC systems.
