Every winter, thousands of people die from exposure to frigid temperatures. Between 2006-2010, 63 percent of weather-related fatalities were due to cold exposure. People who work outdoors during the winter are especially at risk. Make sure your workers know the dangers of cold exposure and how to protect themselves from common cold illnesses.
What are common cold illnesses?
The most common illnesses caused by cold exposure are:
- Hypothermia: occurs when body heat is lost faster than it can be replaced, lowering the body temperature to 95 degrees or below. Symptoms include appearing unusually cold, with a sudden and abrupt stop of shivering; appearing confused or disoriented and unable to walk or stand; and slowed heartbeat and breathing.
- Frostbite: caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. Workers suffering from frostbite may have redden skin with gray and white patches. They may also experience numbness, toughening of skin and blisters.
- Trench foot: caused by a prolonged exposure to wet and cold temperatures, when the foot attempts to preserve heat, it shuts down blood vessels in the foot depriving the tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Watch the feet for swelling, redness, blisters and numbness.
If any of your workers are exhibiting these symptoms, call 911 immediately. All of these cold stress illnesses can result in serious injuries or death. To learn more about the first aid for these illnesses, click .
How can you prevent cold illnesses?
It is your responsibility to educate your workers on the dangers of working in the cold and provide a safe working environment. You should be training your workers on preventing, recognizing and giving first aid for cold stress injuries. You must also provide the proper personal protective equipment, such as outdoor radiators or work shields.
Be sure to use safe work practices: keep your employees hydrated with sweetened, warm liquids, and schedule employees to work during the warmest part of the day, giving them frequent breaks in a warmed area.
Finally, make sure your workers are dressed properly in fabrics that maintain their insulation even when wet, such as wool or some synthetic blends. All workers should be wearing at least three layers of loose fitting clothing, a hat or hood, a knit mask to cover the face and mouth, insulated gloves, and waterproof boots.
To learn more about cold illnesses and how to prevent them, contact your 91黑料网 Loss Control Consultant at (800) 257-1900 or losscontrol@amerisure.com.
