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* Training (10 min) Cold StressWhat is Cold Stress?Cold stress is a serious condition that occurs when the body can no longer maintain its normal temperature.Cold environments are defined as work conditions with low temperatures (below 50 degrees Fahrenheit), high wind speed (over 40mph), contact with cold surfaces or water and inadequate clothing. While it is obvious that below freezing conditions combined with inadequate clothing could bring about cold stress, it is important to understand that it can also be brought about by temperatures in the 50’s coupled with rain and/or wind.What are the risk factors that contribute to cold stress?Extreme cold temperaturesWind speedCold waterWetness/dampness, dressing improperly, and exhaustionPredisposing health conditions such as hypertension, hypothyroidism, and diabetes Poor physical conditioning What are possible injuries from experiencing cold stress?Hypothermia – occurs when body heat is lost faster than it can be replaced and the normal body temperature drops to less than 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Hypothermia is most likely at very cold temperatures, but it can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40 degrees Fahrenheit) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.Frostbite – an injury to the body that is caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissue.HypothermiaSigns and symptomsMildAn exposed worker is alertHe or she may begin to shiver and stomp the feet in order to generate heatModerate to severe As the body temp continues to fall, symptoms will worsen and shivering will stopThe worker may lose coordination and fumble with items in the hand, become confused and disorientedHe or she may be unable to walk or stand, pupils become dilated, pulse and breathing become slowed, and loss of consciousness can occur.Care for HypothermiaCall 911 immediately in an emergency; otherwise seek medical assistance ASAP Move the person to a warm and dry areaRemove wet clothing and replace with dry clothing Cover body with blanketsGive warm sweetened drinks if alertFrostbite – freezing of deep layers of skinUsually affects? Fingers, hands, toes, feet, nose, ears (exposed body parts)Signs and symptoms Reddened skin develops gray/white patches Numbness in the affected areaAffected area feels firm or hardBlisters may occur in the affected area (severe cases)Care for FrostbiteCall 911 if it’s an emergency; otherwise seek medical assistance ASAPDo not rub the affected area to warm it because this action can cause more damage Do not apply snow/waterDo not break blistersDo not try to rewarm the frostbitten area before getting medical help; for example, do not place in warm water. If a frostbitten area is rewarmed and gets frozen again, more tissue damage will occur. It is safer for the frostbitten area to be rewarmed by medical professionals. Loosely cover and protect the area from contactGive warm sweetened drinks if alertHow can you prevent cold injuries?Avoid being outdoors in the coldest part of the dayTake breaks out of the coldDress appropriately for environment – wear layersDrink plenty of liquids, avoiding caffeineTry to work in pairs to keep an eye on each other and watch for signs of cold stressWinter Wear AllowanceWinter wear allowances are added to your paycheck weekly adding up to $52/year. Nolan has pricing on high vis. winter coats similar to those in years past, let him know if you’re interested.? ................
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