Cold - On the Job Tool Box Talks

Overview

When your body is unable to warm itself, serious cold-related illnesses and injuries may occur, and permanent tissue damage and death may result. Cold related illnesses can slowly overcome a person who has been chilled by low temperatures, brisk winds, or wet clothing.

Two of the most common cold related illnesses and injuries are frostbite and hypothermia. While frost bite is dangerous and can cause permanent injury, hypothermia is a medical emergency. If not handled properly, hypothermia can kill you.

Frost bite—What happens to your body?

Freezing in deep layers of skin and tissue; pale, waxy-white skin color; skin becomes hard and numb; usually affects the fingers, hands, toes, feet, ears, and nose.

Hypothermia—a medical emergency—What happens to your body?

Normal body temperature (98.6°F) drops to or below 95°F; fatigue or drowsiness; uncontrolled shivering; cool bluish skin; slurred speech; clumsy movements; irritable, irrational or confused behavior.

Things you can do to prevent difficulties from cold related illnesses and injuries

·          Recognize the weather conditions that could cause cold related illnesses and injuries.

·          Know the signs and symptoms of cold related illnesses/injuries and how to help yourself or a fellow worker.

·          Wear proper clothing for cold, wet, and windy conditions. Layer your clothing so you can adjust to changing temperatures. Wear a hat and gloves in addition to underwear that will keep water away from your skin (polypropylene).

·          Avoid exhaustion or fatigue. Energy is needed to keep your muscles warm.

·          Use the buddy system when working in cold conditions.

·          Drink warm, sweet beverages (sugar water, sports-type drinks). Avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, or hot chocolate) or alcohol. Eat warm, high-calorie foods like hot pasta dishes.

·          Take frequent short breaks in warm dry shelters to allow your body to warm up; work during the warmest part of the day.

You are at increased risk when you:

·          Have predisposing health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

·          Are in poor physical condition, have a poor diet, or are older.

·          Take certain medication (check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacy and ask if any medicines you are taking affect you while working in cold environments).

This information is provided by: Assurance Agency