It is dangerously cold out and working in the
cold can cause several types of cold stress injuries. People who are exposed to lower temperatures
are at risk for injuries ranging from frostbite to serious loss of body heat (hypothermia)
which could result in brain damage or death.
Dress warmly, in layers. Preserving an air space
between the body and the outer layer of clothing will help retain body heat.
Choose fabrics such as cotton or wool, which insulate but also allow sweat to
evaporate. It is especially important to protect the feet, hands, head, and
face. These parts of the body are farthest from the heart and are the hardest
to keep warm. Almost half your body heat can be lost through the head, so cover
it up as well.
Keep dry. Wetness greatly increases
the chance of cold stress. Always have extra clothing available if there's a
chance you could get wet. Keep your feet dry, they are very susceptible to
frostbite.
Take a break. You may think it's wise to
keep on working in cold temperatures. After all, working makes you break a
sweat and you feel warmer. But if you become fatigued during physical activity,
your body loses its ability to properly retain heat. This causes rapid cooling
which can quickly lead to cold stress. When you take a break, be sure to
replace lost fluids and calories by drinking warm, sweet, caffeine-free
nonalcoholic drinks and soup. If you are getting overly fatigued in
cold weather, discuss with your Field Supervisor and/or Superintendent about
taking a short break.
Eat right. A proper diet provides your
body with the nutrients it needs to withstand cold stress. A restrictive diet may
deprive your body the ability to work well in cold temperatures.
Learn what to look out for.
The effects
of cold stress may not be apparent to its victim. The first symptoms of
hypothermia are uncontrollable shivering and the sensation of cold. The heartbeat
slows and may become irregular, and the pulse weakens. As the condition
worsens, severe shaking or rigid muscles may be evident. The victim may also
have slurred speech, memory lapses, and drowsiness. Cool skin, slow, irregular
breathing, and exhaustion occur as the body temperature drops even lower. This
is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Frostbite can occur without accompanying
hypothermia. Frostbite occurs when the fluids around the body's tissues freeze.
The most vulnerable parts of the body are the nose, cheeks, ears, fingers, and
toes. Symptoms of frostbite include coldness and tingling in the affected part,
followed by numbness; changes in skin color to white or grayish-yellow, initial
pain, which subsides as the condition, worsens, and possibly blisters.
Frostbite can cause irreversible tissue damage and requires immediate medical
attention.
If you work in lower-temperature
environments, always be alert for the possibility of cold stress. Follow these
guidelines to help protect yourself from injury. Remember that it doesn't have
to be freezing for cold stress to occur. Take steps to protect yourself.
If you are working outside or in spaces that are not protected from the exterior environment, communicate with your field supervisor and Superintendent of any cold-weather safety related concerns or issues that you may have. Should you have any questions about working in the cold, please contact our Safety Director, Peter Graham at (847) 417-1689.
Have a Safe Day!
