Weather safety: Preventing cold-related injuries

Winter weather poses significant risks to outdoor workers, including cold stress, frostbite, hypothermia, and trench foot, all of which can be life-threatening. It is essential to stay vigilant about weather conditions and be well-prepared for extreme temperatures to minimize these dangers.

Know the symptoms:

Cold Stress: Be aware of symptoms such as reddening skin, tingling, pain, swelling, leg cramps, numbness, and blisters.

Frostbite: This condition causes a loss of feeling and color in the affected areas, most often impacting the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes.

Trench Foot (Immersion Foot): This injury results from prolonged exposure to wet and cold conditions. It can occur at temperatures as high as 60°F if the feet are constantly wet. Wet feet lose heat 25 times faster than dry feet.

• Early-Stage Symptoms: Uncontrollable shivering, clumsiness, confusion, fatigue, slurred speech.
• Late-Stage Symptoms: No shivering, blue skin, dilated pupils, slowed pulse and breathing, loss of consciousness.

• Recognize the symptoms of cold stress, frostbite, and hypothermia.
• Notify your supervisor or seek medical help immediately if you are experiencing or recognize a coworker with a cold-related illness.
• Monitor the weather and be aware of current and future weather conditions including wind chill. Post-pone work if conditions become dangerous to employees.
• Wear appropriate clothing:
  • Wear several layers of loose clothing for better insulation.
  • Select wind proof outerwear to help protect against wind chill.
  • Boots should be waterproof and insulated.
  • Wear warm hats and socks. Hats can reduce body heat escaping from your head.
  • Keep dry and bring extra clothes to swap out wet shirts, socks, hats, etc.
• Take frequent breaks in heated areas.
• Stay hydrated and have warm beverages on hand.
• If possible, avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can act as diuretics and contribute to heat loss.
• Work in pairs so you and your coworker can spot the danger signs.
• Be aware of higher risks if you take certain medications, are in poor physical condition, or suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease.

Cold-related illnesses and injuries are a significant concern in the construction industry, especially during winter months. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 174,100 total recordable cases of nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the private construction industry in 2020. In recent years, U.S. death rates in winter months have been 8 to 12 percent higher than in non-winter months.¹

[1] U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Construction Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities.

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