03 Jan Cold Stress

Cold Stress

Working in cold environments can cause the body to lose heat faster than it can replace it. Low temperatures, wind, moisture, and prolonged exposure can increase the risk of cold stress. Employees working outdoors or in refrigerated environments should recognize the hazards and know how to protect themselves.

Wind and Cold Exposure

As wind speed increases, body heat is lost more rapidly. This wind chill effect can make conditions feel significantly colder than the actual air temperature and increase the risk of cold-related injury.

Wet clothing can also accelerate heat loss. Employees should stay as dry as possible and replace wet clothing promptly.

Dress for the Cold

Proper clothing is one of the most effective protections against cold stress.

• Wear several loose-fitting layers rather than one heavy layer. Layers provide insulation and can be added or removed as conditions change.
• Avoid clothing that is so tight that it restricts circulation, particularly at the hands and feet.
• Wear an appropriate hat or insulated head covering.
• Protect the ears, face, hands, and feet in extremely cold conditions.
• Wear insulated, moisture-resistant gloves and footwear appropriate for the work.
• Keep extra dry clothing available when working in wet or snowy conditions.

Avoid touching cold metal surfaces with bare skin. Skin can freeze to extremely cold metal, resulting in serious tissue injury.

Take Warming Breaks

Employees exposed to cold conditions should have opportunities to warm themselves.

• Move to a warm, dry location during scheduled breaks.
• Take additional warming breaks when conditions or the work require them.
• Replace wet clothing as soon as possible.
• Drink warm, non-alcoholic beverages when available.
• Plan strenuous work carefully to reduce excessive sweating, which can cause clothing to become wet and increase heat loss.

Recognize Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below normal. It can affect the brain and impair judgment, coordination, and the ability to recognize that something is wrong.

Warning signs may include:

• Uncontrollable or persistent shivering;
• Fatigue or drowsiness;
• Confusion or unusual behavior;
• Loss of coordination;
• Slurred speech; and
• Shivering that stops despite continued cold exposure, which may indicate severe hypothermia.

Watch your co-workers. A person developing hypothermia may not recognize the symptoms or be able to make safe decisions.

If hypothermia is suspected, move the worker to a warm, dry location, remove wet clothing, begin appropriate warming measures, and obtain medical assistance. Severe symptoms require immediate emergency medical attention.

Recognize Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze. Fingers, toes, ears, nose, and other exposed areas are particularly vulnerable.

Signs may include numbness, tingling, aching, or skin that appears pale, waxy, gray, or unusually firm. Move the affected person to a warm area and obtain appropriate medical attention. Do not rub or massage frostbitten tissue.

Prevent Cold Stress

Before working in cold conditions:

• Check weather conditions and wind chill when working outdoors.
• Wear appropriate layered clothing and PPE.
• Schedule warming breaks appropriate for the conditions.
• Use windbreaks or other protective measures when practical.
• Allow employees who are not accustomed to cold conditions time to adjust.
• Use a buddy system or maintain regular communication when employees work in severe cold.
• Recognize and immediately report symptoms of cold stress.

Cold stress can affect both physical ability and judgment. Dress appropriately, stay dry, take warming breaks, monitor changing conditions, and watch for symptoms in yourself and your co-workers.