By Vincent J. Quatrini, Esquire
When the cold weather hits, many of us hunker down in a warm home or office. But for outside workers, extreme cold can be hard to escape. Those who work outside, including construction workers, maintenance workers and first responders, should be aware of types of cold weather injuries, how to prevent them, and how to treat them.
Cold weather can cause hypothermia, chilblains, frostbite, Trench Foot (also called Immersion Foot), and Dehydration. Know the symptoms so it can be caught early.
Hypothermia – shivering, dizziness, nausea, increased heartrate, confusion, difficulty speaking, drowsiness.
Chilblains – Itchy, red patches, swelling and blisters on extremities such as ears, nose, toes and fingers.
Frostbite – Deep layers of tissue will freeze, becoming waxy or white. Skin will be numb and hard. Like Chilblains, it often affects extremities.
Trench Foot – general comes from wet and/or unsanitary conditions. Feet will develop a rash and possible ulcerations.
Dehydration – especially when wearing multiple layers, you may be unaware of moisture loss. Also, cold diuresis and increase urine output, dehydrating your body faster.
There are steps that can be taken to protect workers, including:
- Frequent short breaks to warm up. Provide a dry, warm area.
- Work during the warmest part of the day.
- Avoid exhaustion, which makes it harder to stay warm.
- Work in pairs and be alert for symptoms of the above illnesses.
- Drink warm, sweet beverages, such as sports drinks. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can constrict blood vessels and limit your circulation.
In worst case scenarios, if you do suffer a weather-related injury, you may be eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits. Contact us on-line or call 888-534-6016.
