With the onset of colder weather in many areas comes the need to consider the safety of those whose jobs (construction workers, for example) expose them to cold environments on a regular and/or prolonged basis. In addition to those who work in cold climates, those who play (snow sports, for example) in such environments would also do well to consider safety aspects.

When considering cold weather safety, understanding the factors, danger signs, preventative measures, and emergency situations can prove immensely helpful in keeping exposed individuals safe and healthy.

Cold Weather Factors to Consider

When exposed to cold environments, realize that factors such as the actual temperature, presence of winds, and humidity, in addition to contact with cold water or surfaces, all play a role in the safety of working or playing in cold environments.

  1. Temperature. Know the temperature and be smart about the length of time of exposure accordingly.
  2. Wind. Wind speed can decrease the temperature your skin feels exposed to, so know the wind chill too.
  3. Dampness. Add rain into the mix, and even a chilly environment feels colder. Being damp and cold can create unsafe conditions even when the temperature isn’t extreme.
  4. Contact. Realizing that your body heat will transfer into that surface makes staying warm a bit more complicated when coming into contact with a cold surface.

One of the above factors can cause unsafe conditions, but be especially aware of environments where multiple factors exist.

Danger Signs of Cold Weather Exposure

Anyone spending a lot of time in a cold environment should also know the danger signs when exposure becomes unhealthy. OSHA lists the danger signs of being over-exposed to cold climates, including the following:

  • Uncontrolled shivering
  • Slurred speech
  • Clumsy movements
  • Fatigue
  • Confused behavior

Unfortunately, individuals experiencing these signs may not be aware of them, especially when confusion hits. For this reason, using the buddy system when working or playing in cold environments can be one of the best safety procedures to practice.

5 Cold Weather Preventative Measures

Fortunately, employing a few preventative measures keeps most individuals exposed to cold environments safe & healthy. Familiarize yourself with preventive measures when working and playing in cold climates.

  1. Proper clothing. In a word, this means layers. Start with a wicking layer followed by a layer to provide insulation and topped off with an outer layer to protect against wind and rain.
  2. Short breaks. Give your body time to warm up in warm, dry shelters periodically.
  3. Rest well. Rest allows the body to avoid exhaustion, leading to a lack of energy to keep muscles warm.
  4. Drink often. Avoid caffeine and alcohol and focus on warm, sweet beverages that provide quick energy.
  5. Eat heartily. Finally, an excellent excuse for consuming high-calorie foods without guilt! Foods like pasta help stock the energy reserves needed for working and playing in cold environments.

Cold Weather Emergency Situations

Preparing for staying safe in cold environments also includes knowing what to do in an emergency. The most common emergencies in cold environments include cold water immersion, trench foot, hypothermia, and frostbite.

The following tips can help minimize damage and even save limbs or life in emergencies involving exposure to cold environments.

  1. Call for help. Have access to emergency help when spending time in cold environments.
  2. Get dry. Replace wet clothing with dry clothing or blankets as quickly as possible.
  3. Create heat. Create muscle heat by moving limbs, or place warm water bottles or hot packs in armpits, groin areas, and neck and head areas if movement isn’t possible. Avoid heating too quickly, though, as this can lead to fatal situations.
  4. Be gentle. Especially when frostbite is suspected, use warm water to slowly warm the tissue. However, too much heat too quickly can actually damage the tissue.

Cold Weather Training & Education

The basics of cold weather safety outlined above will allow most people – those spending occasional time working and playing in cold environments – to stay safe. However, additional training and education beyond these fundamentals become necessary for those spending extended periods in cold climates.

Take the time to get the necessary information that fits how much time you spend exposed and the type and extremeness of exposure – for staying safe while working or playing in cold weather environments.