Working Safely in the Cold

Employees that work outside in the winter months are at risk of serious health problems, including hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration and muscle injuries. What’s more, frigid temperatures can also cause additional pain for those who suffer from arthritis and rheumatism.
 
Common symptoms of cold-related illnesses and injuries include uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue, confusion, white or grayish skin, skin that feels waxy and numbness.
 

• To reduce the risk of cold-induced injuries, consider doing the following:
• Layer clothing to keep warm enough to be safe, but cool enough to avoid perspiring excessively. Layered clothing should contain the following:
• An inner layer of synthetic weave to keep perspiration away from the body
• A middle layer of wool or synthetic fabric to absorb sweat and retain body heat
• An outer layer designed to protect from wind chill and allow for ventilation
• Wear a hat.
• Place heat packets in gloves, vests, boots and hats to add heat to the body.

 
It’s important to note that many people do not notice they are suffering from cold-related illnesses because their tissue is numb. Therefore, it is wise for employees to check on each other periodically when working outdoors in the cold.
If employees experience any symptoms of cold-related illnesses and injuries, they should get indoors, alert their supervisor and call for medical attention if symptoms do not subside.