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Precautions Needed for Working in the Cold
In most parts of the country, it’s been a mild one so far, but winter officially isn’t even half over and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) continues to remind employers that workers in construction are among those who need to take precautions when out in cold environments.
Prolonged exposure to freezing or cold temperatures can cause serious health problems such as trench foot, frostbite and hypothermia. In extreme cases, such as when a worker is immersed in cold water, the exposure can even lead to death.
Danger signals that a worker is suffering from overexposure and needs emergency help include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue and confused behavior.
Available in English and Spanish, OSHA’s laminated, fold-up Cold Stress Card provides a reference guide and recommendations to combat and prevent many illnesses and injuries. The tips include:
- Recognize the environmental and workplace conditions that may be dangerous.
- Learn the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses and 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 that can be adjusted to changing conditions.
- Be sure workers in extreme conditions take a frequent short break in warm, dry shelters to allow their bodies to warm up.
- Try to schedule work for the warmest part of the day.
- Avoid exhaustion or fatigue because energy is needed to keep muscles warm.
- 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.
- Eat warm, high-calorie foods such as hot pasta dishes.
- Remember, 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.
For free copies of OSHA’s Cold Stress Card in English or Spanish, go to OSHA’s Web site, www.osha.gov, or call 800-321-OSHA.
For more information on construction safety issues, e-mail Rob Matuga at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8507.
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