January 27, 2003—With temperatures across the country at or near record lows, OSHA is reminding workers and employers in industries such as construction to take necessary precautions.
Prolonged exposure to freezing or cold temperatures can result in problems such as trench foot, frostbite, and hypothermia. In extreme cases, including cold water immersion, exposure can result in death. Danger signs include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue, and confused behavior.
According to OSHA, workers face increased risks when they take certain medications, are in poor physical condition, or suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease.
Among the tips:
How to Protect Workers
- Learn the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses/injuries and what to do to help workers.
- Train workers about cold-induced illnesses and injuries.
- Encourage workers to wear proper clothing for cold, wet, and windy conditions including layers so they can adjust to changing conditions.
- Be sure that workers take frequent short breaks in warm dry shelters to allow the body to warm up.
- Try to schedule work for the warmest part of the day.
- Use the buddy system—work in pairs so that one worker can recognize danger signs.
- Drink warm, sweet beverages (sugar water, sports-type drinks) and avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas or hot chocolate) or alcohol.
OSHA’s Cold Stress Card provides a quick reference guide and recommendations. Available in English and Spanish, this laminated fold-up card is free to employers, workers and the public by visiting OSHA or calling 800/321-OSHA.
