Understanding Cold Stress Below-freezing temperatures aren’t necessary for cold stress to occur. It can happen whenever the body is forced to work harder to maintain its temperature. In regions that are not used to sub-zero winter weather, near-freezing temperatures are considered “extreme cold.” When you combine below normal temperatures with higher wind speeds, known as wind chill, heat can leave your body more rapidly. Wetness is another factor that can create “colder than normal” conditions. Contributing Factors It doesn’t take below-normal temperatures alone to risk cold stress. Other factors can include: • Wetness or dampness • Improperly dressing for the weather • Exhaustion or poor physical conditioning •Predisposing health conditions such as hypertension, hypothyroidism, and diabetes Proper PPE for the Cold Dressing properly is key to preventing cold stress, and the type of fabric worn makes a difference. Cotton loses its insulation value when it becomes wet, even from your sweat. Wool, silk, and most synthetic fibers, on the other hand, retain their insulation values even when wet. • Wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing – do not wear tight-fitting clothing. • Inner layer of wool, silk, or synthetic to wick moisture away from the body. • Middle layer of wool or synthetic to provide insulation, even when wet. • Outer wind and rain protection layer with some ventilation to prevent overheating. • Hat or hood to prevent the escape of heat from your head. • Knit mask to cover face and mouth, if needed. • Insulated gloves to protect the hands, water-resistant if necessary. • Insulated and waterproof boots or footwear. • Keep extra clothing, including underwear, handy in case you get wet and need to change. 5(a)(1) - OSHA’s General Duty Clause in Regards to Cold Stress According to Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers have a responsibility to provide workers with a work environment free from recognized hazards which are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm. One of these hazards is cold stress which often gets overlooked as much less dangerous than its counterpart, heat stress. It is an employer’s duty to train workers on cold stress hazards of the job and the safety measures to use to protect their safety and health. SAFETY FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT CONTACT: SAFETYQUESTIONS@FASTENAL.COM OR 1-833-FNL-SAFE WF_687750 | JF 6/23 6.2023 | AD
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