Working in cold weather could be dangerous to the untrained and to people without adequate winter clothing. For a well informed and prepared worker, winter work can be enjoyable and fulfilling. To cope with winter, stay active, dress warmly, wear your HP Liner Hard Insulated Liner and follow safety rules.
Why Worry About Cold?
- A cold environment takes away body heat.
- Too much heat loss can cause lowering of the inner body temperature to dangerously low levels causing hypothermia.
- Exposed body parts may freeze in extreme cold, causing frostbite.
- Loss of body heat (hypothermia) and frostbite (freezing of body tissue) can present serious danger to health and can be life threatening.
- Cold air is dry air and can cause dry skin and loss of body fluid.
- If you have arthritis or rheumatism, cold weather can create more pain problems for you.
- Prolonged exposure to moderate cold and dampness can result in an injury called “trench foot”, which can occur at temperatures above freezing point when feet are cold and damp while wearing constricting footwear
- Working in cold environments increases the risk of back injuries and other musculoskeletal injuries. Perform “warm up” stretching exercises before handling heavy equipment and material.
- Winter clothing, head protection, gloves and boots while working in the the cold, can restrict movement.
- Cold affects dexterity, affecting skill and ease of using the hands.
Dress Warmly—Be Prepared
Wear cotton or polypropylene long underwear for all-over warmth.
Wear multiple layers of light, loose-fitting clothes. Air between the layers provides warmth. Outer wear should be waterproof.
Wear cold weather clothing or arctic clothing that is appropriate for the outdoor temperature range and the type of activity.
Wear mittens instead of gloves whenever possible, as mittens are warmer.
Wearyour hard hat insulated liner to prevent heat loss from the head. As much as 40% of body heat can be lost from an uncovered head. Using an hard hat insulated liner reduces heat loss.
WEAR woolen socks to protect your ankles and feet. Carry an extra pair where moisture or sweat is likely, and change when necessary.