With snow covering much of the landscape, spans of arctic cold temperatures and windchills with daily high temperatures that will be the coldest in about 10 years, it is essential to take the proper safety measures when working outside. It is interesting to note that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control documents that there are more deaths in the United States due to cold weather exposure than hot weather exposure each year. The Centers for Disease Control has also tracked an average of 1,300 deaths per year in the United States due to excessive cold or hypothermia.
Many jobs are affected little with the change in temperature outside, but others do not have that luxury. Occupations such as agriculture -- and others -- work outside a great deal no matter what the conditions. Helpful reminders are often beneficial to keep safe while accomplishing outdoor tasks.
Everyone responds to cold weather and temperature extremes differently. It is what individuals are “used to” and what they can “tolerate.” What Alaskans think of as cold in January may be quite different than what others perceive as cold in the lower 48. Specific contributing factors may also affect a person’s susceptibility to cold temperatures such as getting wet, exhaustion, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, diabetes and general poor physical condition.
There are general good practices for working in cold weather to be followed.
- Plan routine maintenance on outdoor equipment for warmer seasons.
- Let others know where work is being done and the timeframe of when it will be completed.
- Dress in layers so clothing may be added or taken off in specific instances.
- Keep dry. Keep extra dry clothes, gloves and shoes/boots nearby.
- Protect ears, face, hands, feet and head. Extremities away from the body core have less blood flow and are more difficult to keep warm.
- Take breaks in warm locations.
- Stay hydrated. Hydration is not often thought of as an issue in cold weather, but it is just as important.
In some cases, cold-related illness and injuries will occur. It is important to know the symptoms to watch for signs.
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