The material in this issue is adapted from BLR®’s audio PowerPoint® presentation on “Working in Cold Conditions.”
One effective way to begin training sessions is to impress upon trainees why this particular training topic is so serious. Here’s some information about the dangers of working in the cold to give your trainees:
- Hypothermia is a serious medical condition that is potentially fatal to workers. While most cases of hypothermia occur in air temperatures between 30°F and 50°F, significant hypothermia can occur in air temperatures as high as 65°F or water as warm as 72°F.
- If a worker’s body temperature falls below 95°F it is considered an emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
- Frostbite may lead to tissue death, amputation, or permanent inability to use an appendage.
- A worker may not be aware he or she is suffering from frostbite due to numbness in the affected area. Not seeking medical care and remaining in the cold environment can lead to more serious injuries.
- Similarly, low body temperature can impair a worker’s judgment so that he or she does not realize they are suffering symptoms of a cold-related disorder.
- Dehydration is fairly common for workers in cold conditions because workers tend to feel less thirsty and not drink enough.
- Workers can be more susceptible to cold-related illnesses and injuries depending on their age, health, and medical conditions.
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Training Exercise
First, review with trainees the jobs that are likely to be done in cold conditions, the hazards of working in cold conditions, and methods for mitigating these hazards, including engineering and administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE). After review of all relevant information, use this training exercise to ensure that employees understand the hazards posed by cold conditions and are ready to take preventive actions. Responses to these questions can be made by either individuals or small groups:
- What jobs at this workplace may include work in cold conditions?
___________________________________________________________ - What factors associated with your workplace or job may increase the risks of working in the cold? (Exposure to high winds, proximity to open water, etc.)
___________________________________________________________ - What medical conditions are associated with cold conditions?
___________________________________________________________ - What are the symptoms of frostbite?
___________________________________________________________ - What can you do to help a coworker who may be suffering from mild hypothermia?
___________________________________________________________ - How can you prevent conditions such as frostbite and hypothermia from occurring?
___________________________________________________________ - What protective clothing and equipment are used on the job to guard against the cold?
___________________________________________________________ - What else can you do to protect yourself from the cold?
___________________________________________________________ - What advice would you give a new coworker about working in the cold?
___________________________________________________________
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In tomorrow’s Advisor, we’ll get guidance on the answers to these questions, and we’ll check out a dynamic training resource of ready-to-use safety sessions that train in 7 minutes flat!