Brrrrrrrace Your Workers for the Cold

Very cold temperatures can be hazardous—even deadly—to your workers' health. Of course, no matter the temperature, the work must still get done. Workers can be exposed to hazards from cold indoors as well as outside. It's very cold, for instance, in food storage areas. However, since it's January, it makes sense to focus your training session on working in frigid conditions outside. As with all potential hazards, prevention is the best method for staying safe in the cold. For example, train your workers to prevent cold problems by taking these precautions: Limit exposure to cold, especially if it's windy or humid. Be especially careful if you're older, overweight, or have allergies or poor circulation. Know that problems can arise in above-freezing temperatures. Know that problems can arise from touching a subfreezing object. Be especially careful if you smoke, drink, or take medications. Don't bathe, smoke, or drink alcohol before going into the cold. When workers must spend time in the cold, advise them to wear layers of loose dry clothing with cotton or wool underlayers and a waterproof top layer. In addition, workers also need to: Cover head, hands, feet, and face. Dry or change wet clothing immediately. Keep moving when they're in the cold. Take regular breaks in warm areas. Move to a warm area if they feel very cold or numb. Drink a warm, nonalcoholic, decaffeinated beverage.