Transcript Cold Stress
FHM TRAINING TOOLS This training presentation is part of FHM’s commitment to creating and keeping safe ►►► workplaces. Be sure to check out all the training programs that are specific to your industry. These materials have been developed based on applicable federal laws and regulations in place at the time the materials were created. The program is being provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute and is not intended to provide OSHA compliance certification, regulatory compliance, a substitute for any "hands on“ training required by applicable laws and regulations, or other legal or professional advice or services. By accessing the materials, you assume all responsibility and risk arising from the use of the content contained therein. ©2010 Grainger Safety Services, Inc. Cold Stress ►►► These materials have been developed based on applicable federal laws and regulations in place at the time the materials were created. The program is being provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute and is not intended to provide OSHA compliance certification, regulatory compliance, a substitute for any "hands on“ training required by applicable laws and regulations, or other legal or professional advice or services. By accessing the materials, you assume all responsibility and risk arising from the use of the content contained therein. ©2010 Grainger Safety Services, Inc. Learning Objective Objectives: ► Identify the health hazards ► Recognize the symptoms ► Understand prevention strategies Agenda Presentation Agenda: ► Recognizing cold stress ► Preventative measures ►Section 1 Recognizing Cold Stress Understanding Cold Stress Workers may be required to work in cold environments: ► Sometimes for extended periods of time ► Cold stress is a common problem Factors Contributing to Cold Stress Four factors: ► Cold air temperatures ► High velocity air movement ► Dampness of the air ► Contact with cold water or surfaces The Effect of Cold on the Body The cold will: ► Forces body to work harder to maintain it’s temperature ► Cold air, water, and snow all draw heat from the body Wind Chill Wind chill is: ► Combination of air temperature and wind speed ► Capable of bringing cold stress in the 50’s with rain and wind The Reaction to Cold Conditions In a cold environment: ► The body’s energy is used to keep internal temperature ► Blood flow will shift from extremities and outer skin to the core ► Increases risk of frostbite and hypothermia, and even trench foot Most Common Cold Induced Problems Common cold induced problems: ► Hypothermia ► Frostbite ► Trench foot Hypothermia Hypothermia: ► Means “low heat” ► Potentially serious health condition ► Occurs when body heat is lost faster than it can be replaced ► When core temperature drops below 98.6° F to around 95° F the symptoms begin Treatment for Hypothermia For mild cases: ► Move to warm area and stay active ► Remove and replace wet clothes ► Cover the head ► Drink a warm sugary drink For severe cases: ► Do the same as mild ► Contact emergency personnel ► Cover all extremities Frostbite Frostbite facts: ► Occurs when skin freezes and loses water ► Amputation may be required in serious cases ► Wind chill can allow it to occur in above freezing temperatures ► Affected body part will be cold, tingling, stinging or aching ► Skin turns red, then purple, then white Treatment for Frostbite When treating frostbite: ► Do not rub the area ► Wrap the area in a soft cloth ► Move to a warm area ► Contact emergency personnel ► Do not be left alone Trench Foot Cause and symptoms: ► Caused by having feet immersed in cold water for long periods of time ► Symptoms include tingling, itching, burning, or blisters Treatment for Trench Foot When treating trench foot: ► Soak feet in warm water ► Wrap with dry cloth bandages ► Drink warm sugary drink ►Section 2 Preventative Measures Preventative Measures Measures to take: ► Plan for work in cold weather ► Wear appropriate clothing ► Avoid alcohol, certain medications, and smoking to minimize risk Protective Clothing Recommended for working in cold environments: ► Wear at least three layers of clothing ► Wear a hat ► Wear insulated boots or footwear ► Keep a change of dry clothing ► Do not wear tight clothing Work Practices Important preventative measures: ► Drink plenty of liquids ► Schedule heavier work during warmer parts of the day ► Try to work in pairs ► Avoid fatigue ► Take frequent breaks ► Consume warm and high calorie food Engineering Controls Controls to reduce risk of cold stress: ► Radiant heaters ► Shielding work areas from drafts or wind ► Use of insulating material Training Supervisors should use appropriate: ► Engineering controls ► Personal protective equipment ► Work practices Additional Information Sources of additional information: Cold Stress, Occupational Health and Safety Administration, Safety and Health Guides. February 2005. http://www.osha.gov/Publications/coldcard/coldcard.ht ml