STAYING WARM ON WINTER CONSTRUCTION SITES

Winter isn’t even officially here, at least according to the calendar, but many places are already experiencing extreme weather with new records being set for low temperatures. You need to keep yourself and your crew safe and healthy through this cold season.

HEALTH DANGERS OF EXTREME COLD
Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 95˚F. The symptoms are uncontrollable shivering, drowsiness, slowed breathing, confusion, and pale skin among others. It can seem to come on suddenly and a person may not realize he is in trouble until it is too late. Hypothermia isn’t funny. It can be deadly if not caught in time.

Frostbite is another health hazard in cold climates. This occurs when skin is exposed to sub-freezing temperatures for a prolonged period of time. The extremities are affected first and foremost. The skin becomes numb then there is no longer any sensation of pain. The affected limb will feel heavy and develop swelling and blisters. The skin becomes waxy and/or yellow tinted.

When the frostbitten limb is warmed it may turn purple but if the frostbite is extensive tissues can die.

The cold already causes a certain level of clumsiness. Hypothermia and frostbite exacerbate the problems and can contribute to accidents on the job site.

WHAT TO WEAR
The well-dressed winter worker knows how to dress for the climate. Layers are always appropriate. Recently materials have been developed that provide more insulation with less bulk.

Thermal underwear is a good foundation layer and can come in good old-fashioned cotton or a futuristic knit with breathable properties. Make sure the outer layers of clothing are large enough to accommodate such underwear to keep joints from binding.

Thermal insulated overalls are also available. These overalls maintain your core body heat yet are easy to work in. They may cost a bit more but are worth every penny. Consider what a trip to the emergency room could cost you without them. You can also buy helmet liners. Hard-hats and bare heads allow heat to slip away. A helmet liner will protect your head and neck from heat loss and also prevent exposure to frostbite.

Gloves are a must. You need gloves with the right fabric for the job but that will also accommodate glove liners. This way your work gloves are good year ‘round; buy several pairs of liners and you can have a clean set each workday.

Something you may not think about is eye-protection from the cold. The eyes and the tissue around them have a large blood flow; cold can affect them more quickly than many realize. Cold wind and dry air also dry out the cornea inviting infection.

Heavy-duty thermal socks that wick away sweat are a winter staple. Such socks insulate the feet without accompanying dampness. These types of socks are very important if you use steel toed boots. Metal toed boots tend to conduct cold into your feet. If you can, find a different hard toe composite and avoid standing directly on the ground; use a mat or other insulating barrier between you and the dirt.

OTHER PROTECTIVE MEASURES
The cold is notorious for drying out skin. Dry skin is less effective as a barrier and can also be very uncomfortable. Moisturizers, skin creams, and other emollients can help your skin maintain moisture and alleviate itching and dryness. Don’t forget your soap can dry skin, too. Try using soap with moisturizer in it for the colder months.

Have safety meetings with your crew to explain the symptoms and consequences of hypothermia and frostbite; remind them to always work in pairs. Hypothermia can cause confusion and the person suffering may not realize what is happening. A work partner will be able to see problems more quickly and provide assistance. Make sure everyone takes frequent breaks to warm up.

Here’s something you and your workers will like: drink warm beverages and eat high-calorie foods such as potatoes and pasta. However, you need to avoid caffeine, so no coffee (unless it’s decaf). Alcohol is already a big mistake on the job site; it provides false warmth that actually accelerates hypothermia.

Lastly, if at all possible, work during the warmest part of the day. And use good judgment when scheduling. Keep an eye on the weather and notify your workers quickly if it isn’t possible to work that day.

Winter can be fun but you and your crew need to take just as much care in staying safe in the cold as you do in the heat of summer. Take care, wear appropriate clothes, and keep warm.


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