Safety tips: Avoiding cold stress

It does not have to be below freezing to suffer a cold stress injury; wind speed and wetness can also lead to permanent tissue damage and even death. The industries with the highest rates of cold stress injuries include heavy construction, oil and gas extraction, trucking and warehousing, protective services, electric and gas utilities and sanitation. Vehicle breakdown, contact with gasoline, alcohol or water might all be contributing factors. During non-winter months, injuries often occur among people who process, distribute and prepare food.

To prevent cold stress injuries including frostbite, hypothermia and trench feet:

• Recognize the environmental and workplace conditions that could lead to cold-induced illnesses and injuries.
• Educate and train workers about cold-induced injuries and illnesses.
• Select proper clothing for cold, wet and windy conditions. Layer clothing for changing environmental temperatures. Hats and gloves, in addition to underwear that will keep water away from the skin (polypropylene), are recommended.
• If the skin gets wet, dry off immediately. Wet skin freezes at a higher temperature than dry skin.
• Take frequent short breaks in warm, dry shelters to allow the body to warm up.
• Work should be performed during the warmest part of the day, if possible.
• Avoid exhaustion or fatigue because energy is needed to keep the muscles warm.
• Work in pairs.
• Drink warm, sweet beverages. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Include a thermometer and chemical hot packs in your first aid kit.

For more information visit, http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/coldstress/.