As the cold weather months approach, employers need to pay attention to their employees who might be working in cold environments. Working in a cold environment can adversely impact employee performance and health. Cold can also aggravate the risk of common hazards and increase the risk of cold-induced injuries and illnesses.
Who is at Risk
Industries and occupations where workers are at greater risk for cold-related injuries includes occupations that involve outdoor cold exposure such as construction workers, delivery people, utility workers, firefighters and police. Indoor workers, such as those in the food processing and cold storage industries, also can be negatively impacted by cold work environments. Older employees, those with health problems, and those who drink alcohol or take certain medications are also vulnerable.
Health Effects of Cold
Cold temperatures can have hazardous health effects and negatively impact employees’ ability to work well. Some of the serious effects of exposure to cold temperatures include dehydration, numbness, shivering, frostbite and hypothermia. Factors that influence the severity of cold effects include the temperature outside, the wind chill factor, humidity level and altitude, the length of time an employee is exposed to the cold, and the exposed individual’s physical condition.
Tips to prevent cold-related illness
- Eat properly with plenty of carbohydrates and fats for energy and warmth prior to beginning work.
- Drink fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Alcohol, caffeine and drugs may impair thinking, restrict blood flow and increase heat loss.
- Get enough sleep. Being well rested will make employees feel energized and positive.
- Remove wet clothes immediately. They cause accelerated heat loss and impair movement.
- Wear clothing that insulates from the cold and lets perspiration evaporate while protecting from the wind, rain and snow.
- Protect head and neck, hands, feet and toes. These areas are especially susceptible to heat loss and decreased circulation.
Cold weather injuries can be prevented by planning ahead, properly training employees, and providing employees with the appropriate protective gear. CPC’s Federal Cold Stress Poster (#74704) is an excellent cold stress training and reinforcement tool. The poster identifies the signs, symptoms and dangers of cold stress, teaches employees how to protect themselves and informs them of how to respond in an emergency. Order today!