Thermal variable-operation regulator that regulates the operation of an operating device by progressively limiting the operation of the operating device (24) as a limitation temperature (Tset) increases. The limitation temperature (Tset), based on which the operation of the operating device (24) is limited, is set to a smoothed temperature (Ttmp), obtained by performing a predetermined smoothing process on the detected temperature (Tiny), by a limitation temperature setting means when a change amount (AT) of the detected temperature (Tiny) is equal to or less than a predetermined change amount (Tref). However, when the change amount (AT) of the detected temperature (Tiny) is greater than the predetermined change amount (Tref), the limitation temperature (Tset) is set without using the detected temperature (Tiny). An operating means of the thermal variable operation regulator effects the operation and progressive limitation of the operating device (24) in response to increases in the limitation temperature (Tset).