We live in Minnesota and the fact is that our winters are cold. Those of us that work outdoors in extreme temperatures for extended periods of time need to pay attention to our bodies and keep an eye on our co-workers for potential symptoms of cold stress.
Extremely cold or wet weather can cause hypothermia or
frostbite at a much more rapid pace than we would expect.
Symptoms to watch out for
Someone with hypothermia, a condition in which the body
uses up its stored energy and can no longer produce heat, may exhibit
shivering, confusion, and blue skin. If you or a co-worker are suffering from
hypothermia:
- Request immediate medical assistance.
- Move into a warm room or shelter.
- Remove wet clothing.
- If conscious, warm beverages may help increase the body temperature.
- Once the person’s temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrapped in a warm blanket, including the head and neck.
Frostbite is indicated by tingling or stinging hands;
numbness; or bluish or pale, waxy skin. If you or a co-worker is suffering from
frostbite:
- Get into a warm room as soon as possible.
- Unless necessary, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes.
- Immerse the affected area in warm (not hot) water, or warm the affected area using body heat. Do not use a heating pad, fireplace, or radiator for warming.
- Do not massage the frostbitten area – this may cause more damage.
Top 10 cold weather precautions to take
The best protection against cold-related health risks is to be aware, prepared, and implement engineering controls to protect workers. Consider the Top 10 Cold Weather Precautions:
- Have sufficient clothing, including face/head protection, gloves, and waterproof, insulated footwear. Loose multi-layered clothing provides the best protection, because air trapped between layers of clothing provides an additional thermal insulation. Tight clothing reduces blood circulation and can restrict movement, which can be hazardous.
- Drink plenty of fluids, preferably warm sweet beverages. Cold weather suppresses thirst, and dehydration can occur without proper fluid intake.
- Increase caloric intake. Working in heavy protective clothing expends more heat, so 10-15% more calories are required.
- Take periodic breaks as wind velocity increases or the temperature drops.
- Avoid alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, and medications that inhibit the body’s response to cold or impair judgment.
- Avoid the cold if you are becoming exhausted or immobilized, conditions that can accelerate the effects of cold weather. Never touch cold metal with bare skin.
- Shield work areas from drafty or windy conditions. Seek a heated shelter if you have prolonged exposure to a wind chill of 20 degrees or less. Include chemical hot packs in your first aid kit.
- Work during the warmest hours of the day and minimize activities that decrease circulation.
- Learn the symptoms of cold-related stresses: heavy shivering, uncomfortable coldness, severe fatigue, drowsiness, and euphoria.
- Work in pairs so partners can monitor one another and obtain help quickly in an emergency.
Staying warm and safe while on the job can become a challenge at times. Are your workers trained in working in cold weather?
More resources:
https://www.osha.gov/as/opa/cold_weather_prep.html
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/coldstress/recommendations.html
Submitted by: Julie Jelen, Loss Control Consultant
