Working in the Cold

Goals: This safety session should teach employees to

Recognize the hazards and symptoms of exposure to cold.
Know how to prevent and respond to cold exposure.
Applicable Regulations:       General Duty Clause Sec. 5(a), 1910.132

1. Overexposure to Cold-Indoors or Outdoors-Can Be Harmful to Health
   • Frostbite. Body tissues may freeze when skin is exposed to extreme cold or touches a very cold object.
   • The nose, ears, cheeks, fingers, and toes are at greatest risk.
   • Worst cases can cause permanent tissue damage, loss of movement in affected parts, and possibly unconsciousness and death from heart failure.
   • Damage may be greater if the body part is thawed, then refrozen.
   • Hypothermia. Exposure to cold may send body temperatures to dangerously low levels.
   • It can occur in above-freezing temperatures when it's windy or you're exhausted or wearing wet clothes.
   • Worst cases can lead to unconsciousness and death.
   • Factors that increase the risks of frostbite and hypothermia include:
     • Age
     • Overweight
     • Smoking and drinking
     • Certain medications, allergies, or poor circulation
     • Victims' failure to recognize symptoms and take prompt action
       
       
2. Reduce the Risks of Exposure to Extreme Cold
   • Avoid bathing, smoking, or drinking alcohol before going into cold conditions.
   • Wear layers of loose, dry clothes.
   • If possible, wear wool underneath and a waterproof layer on top.
   • Always cover hands, feet, face, and head in the cold.
   • An uncovered head can make the body lose up to 40 percent of its heat.
   • Change or get dry immediately if clothes get wet.
   • Keep moving while working in the cold. Take regular breaks in warm areas.
   • Move to a warm area when you start to feel very cold or numb.
   • Have a warm alcohol-free, caffeine-free drink.
     
     
3. Recognize Frostbite and Hypothermia Symptoms
   Frostbite symptoms include:
   • Feeling extremely cold, then numb-with possible tingling, aching, or brief pain.
   • White or grayish yellow glossy skin, which may blister.
     • Confusion, failing eyesight, and shock as condition progresses.
   • Hypothermia symptoms include:
     • Chills, shivering, numbness and sometimes pain in the extremities.
     • Slurred speech, poor coordination, confusion, drowsiness.
       
       
4. Respond Quickly and Correctly to Frostbite and Hypothermia Symptoms
   Act immediately when symptoms develop to prevent serious problems.
   • Move to a warm place.
   • Replace frozen, wet, or tight clothes with warm clothes or blankets.
   • Drink a warm beverage-without alcohol or caffeine.
   • Get medical help after first aid treatment.
   • Take first aid actions for frostbite:
     • Warm the frozen part immediately with blankets or warm (not hot) water.
     • Avoid touching the frozen part; don't rub or hit it.
     • Keep the frozen part away from hot stoves, heat lamps or hot water bottles.
     • Don't break blisters or drink anything with caffeine.
     • Exercise the body part once it's warm-but don't walk on frostbitten feet.
   • Take first aid actions for hypothermia:
     • Cover victim with blankets-and/or lie next to person to give body heat.
     • DON'T use hot baths, electric blankets, or hot water bottles.
     • Keep the person awake and give artificial respiration if needed.
     • Get emergency help immediately if the person loses consciousness.

Conclusion: When It's Cold, Be Constantly Alert to Health Hazards
Dress and move to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Act immediately if you or someone around you experiences any symptoms.