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🥶 Cold Stress Prevention

Topic: Working safely in cold conditions Duration: 5-7 minutes Best for: Winter months, cold climates

The Risks​

Cold weather creates several hazards:

  • Hypothermia — Body loses heat faster than it can produce
  • Frostbite — Skin and tissue freezing
  • Trench foot — Wet, cold feet for prolonged periods
  • Slips and falls — Ice and snow

Wind chill makes it worse. A 30°F day with 15 mph wind feels like 19°F.

Types of Cold Injury​

Hypothermia​

Signs:

  • Shivering (early stage — shivering stops in severe hypothermia)
  • Confusion, slurred speech
  • Drowsiness
  • Loss of coordination

Action: Move to warm area, remove wet clothing, warm the center of the body first, give warm beverages (no alcohol). Call 911 for severe cases.

Frostbite​

Signs:

  • Numbness in extremities
  • White or grayish-yellow skin
  • Skin feels waxy or hard

Action: Move to warm area, immerse in warm (not hot) water, don't rub the affected area. Seek medical attention.

Trench Foot​

Signs:

  • Tingling, itching, pain in feet
  • Swelling, blisters
  • Skin turns red then blue/gray

Action: Remove wet footwear, dry feet, elevate, seek medical attention.

Prevention Strategies​

Dress in Layers​

  1. Base layer: Moisture-wicking (not cotton)
  2. Middle layer: Insulating (fleece, wool)
  3. Outer layer: Wind/waterproof

Protect Extremities​

  • Insulated, waterproof boots
  • Warm socks (bring extras)
  • Insulated gloves (task-appropriate)
  • Hard hat liner or balaclava
  • Face protection in extreme cold

Work Practices​

  • Take warming breaks
  • Schedule strenuous work for warmest part of day
  • Work in pairs — buddy system
  • Keep moving (but avoid sweating)
  • Stay dry — change wet clothes immediately

Hydration and Nutrition​

  • Drink warm fluids
  • Eat warm, high-calorie foods
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol (affect blood flow)

Warming Station Requirements​

Provide a warm break area with:

  • Heated space (trailer, tent with heater)
  • Warm beverages
  • Dry clothing storage
  • Place to sit and rest

Special Considerations​

Metal Surfaces​

  • Bare skin can freeze to cold metal instantly
  • Always wear gloves when handling metal
  • Use insulated tool handles

Equipment​

  • Allow proper warm-up time for equipment
  • Check hydraulics and fluids
  • Be aware that batteries perform poorly in cold

Ice and Snow​

  • Clear walking paths
  • Use ice melt/sand
  • Wear footwear with good traction
  • Hold handrails

Discussion Questions​

  1. Where is our warming station?
  2. Does everyone have appropriate cold weather gear?
  3. What's the wind chill today?
  4. How often should we take warming breaks today?

Today's Commitment​

"Today I will dress appropriately, take warming breaks, and watch for signs of cold stress in myself and coworkers."

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