Many jobs within the tourism and hospitality industry demand that employees work outside for extended periods of time. Without proper training and protection, however, workers who must brave the outdoors often face serious health risks as the temperatures tumble.
Simply put, the ability of employees to function normally outdoors is affected by exposure to cold conditions. Cold-related stress can come from low temperatures, high or cool winds, dampness and cold water. To protect workers, employers need to be mindful of the weather, its effects on the body, and proper prevention techniques.
Wearing the appropriate clothing is the best way to stay warm and safe in the outdoors. Employees should always dress appropriately for the weather and the tasks being performed. In most cases, this will involve wearing at least three layers of clothing.
The outer layer of clothing should be gortex, nylon or another breathable fabric that can break the wind and allow some ventilation. The middle layer should be made of wool, down or synthetic pile, which absorbs the heat and retains its insulating properties when wet. An inner layer of cotton or synthetic weave will allow ventilation and let perspiration escape.
Employees should pay special attention to protecting their feet, hands, head, and face in cold weather. Since up to 40% of body heat can be lost when exposed, the employee’s entire head should be covered. As fingers and hands lose can lose their dexterity at temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius, employees should wear gloves that allow them to perform their tasks but are appropriate for the weather conditions.
Boots or shoes worn by employees should protect against both cold and dampness. Footwear should be insulated and fit comfortably with several layers of socks.
If an employee’s clothes get wet while they are outdoors, they should change into dry clothes as soon as possible. Keeping an extra supply of dry clothes at work is always a good idea.
As an employer, you have an important role to play in preventing cold-related injuries and illnesses. A risk assessment should be performed to determine areas and tasks where workers may be at risk. As much as possible, select the warmest hours of the day to schedule outdoor tasks. Before workers leave the indoors, the temperature and wind conditions should be known. Always assign a buddy or supervisor to provide constant protective observation of the employee.
Once outdoors, allow employees to set their own pace and take work breaks when needed. Make sure there is a heated rest area for employees who are exposed to wind-chill temperatures of -6 degrees Celsius or less, and shield work areas from drafty or windy conditions. Keep in mind that employee breaks should be at least ten minutes, in a heated area. During the break, outer clothing should be removed to prevent overheating and sweating when in the heated area.
Keep in mind that, when working at a heavy pace outdoors, employees need to stay hydrated. Water should be provided before, during and after employees have been working outdoors. Once back inside, allow employees a period of adjustment to the cold before they begin a full work schedule. On-site sources of heat such as radiant heaters can provide warmth for workers who have just come in from the cold.
While the right clothing can help to protect employees, employers must educate employees about the symptoms of cold-related stress. These effects can include everything from frostbite to hypothermia. Train employees to be aware of signs of frostbite, including a tingling, stinging or aching feeling in the exposed area followed by numbness.
Let them know that frostbitten areas will often appear white and cold to the touch. The first symptoms of hypothermia are shivering, an inability to do complex motor functions, lethargy and mild confusion. These occur as the core body temperature decreases to around 35 degrees Celsius. Let employees know that, as body temperature continues to fall, even simple functions can become difficult. Speech can become slurred and behaviour may become irrational. For both hypothermia and frostbite, immediate medical assistance should be sought.
By knowing the facts about cold-related illnesses and injuries, and following a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that this winter is a safe and healthy one for everyone.
The following changes can occur when the temperature drops and exposure increases, which can affect:
Excerpted from Safety Mosaic Vol. 7 # 4 Winter 2004
For more information, check out OSSA’s The Great Outdoors: Winter Groundskeeping Training Package.
That when move or lifting objects you should reduce the vertical distance between the origin and the destination of the object.
