By John Howell

It is that time of year again, weather can often be unpredictable and extreme. Freezing temperatures can create serious health problems, collectively called cold stress.

Cold Stress Factors            

• Freezing or near-freezing weather
• Strong winds
• Being wet
• Working for long periods in extreme cold
• Working in poorly-insulated or poorly-heated areas
• Being unaccustomed to freezing weather

Preventive Measures

• Monitor yourself and your coworkers for signs of cold stress.
• Wear appropriate clothing, such as waterproofed and insulated boots, hats, and multiple layers of loose clothing. Particularly protect all extremities.
• Always carry cold weather gear, such as extra socks, gloves, hats, jackets, blankets, water, food, and a thermos of hot liquid.
• Carry a change of clothes and use them if clothes get wet.
• Limit the amount of time spent in cold, wet environments. Move into warm, dry locations during breaks.
• Do not touch cold metal surfaces with bare skin.

Cold Stress Conditions

Hypothermia:

Description: A medical emergency in which the body cannot warm itself

Causes: Lengthy exposure to freezing weather

Symptoms: Shivering at the onset or not later, fatigue, confusion, disorientation, blue skin, dilated pupils, slowed pulse and breathing, or loss of consciousness

First aid: Remove wet clothes, keep the victim warm and dry with blankets, and give the victim warm drinks (if conscious). Monitor consciousness, and get medical help.

Frostbite:

Description: Damage to body tissue, mostly in the extremities

Causes: Lengthy exposure to freezing weather

Symptoms: Skin that is aching, tingling, stinging, bluish, pale, or waxy

First aid: Immerse the skin in warm but not hot water or, if that is not possible, warm very gently with body heat, without rubbing or pressure. Get medical help.

NOTE: Always promote a discussion on any of the topics covered in the Tool Box Talks. Should any question arise that you cannot answer, don’t hesitate to contact your Employer.