Cold Weather Safety
"Brr-aving" the cold! When working outside in cold weather, help keep your job site safe with these cold weather tips.
Wet/cold syndromes can occur with temperatures as low as 53 degrees F combined with sweat or wet clothing. Get out of wet clothing and get into a warm temperature.
Frostbite occurs after exposure to very cold temperatures. The skin becomes cold, pale and numb and sweating stops; then the feet turn red and swell. Do not rub the affected areas to attempt to warm - seek medical attention.
Hypothermia is the body's inability to keep its core temperature above 98 degrees F. Hands and feet become cold and numb. Severe shivering begins and is the first sign of hypothermia. Other signs of hypothermia are difficulty with speech, forgetfulness and drowsiness. The body must be warmed immediately or death could follow quickly.
Preventive Measures for Safety with Cold Temperatures:
- Know the symptoms of cold-related disorders
- Drink hot liquids, avoid alcohol and smoking
- Wear layered clothing, starting with thermal underwear, an insulating layer next, outer garments that repel wind and water, head and ear coverings, warm and waterproof boots and warm gloves
- Add or remove layers according to changes in the weather and/or workload
- Make sure clothing is not tight enough to cut off circulation
- Keep boots and clothing dry
