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Cold Weather Work Safety

By Spence Meyers (Source: NLTAPA Tailgate Safety Talks - Cornell Local Roads Program)

This Everyday Safety Tailgate Talk was originally published as the January 2016 “Safety Pins” by Philip E. Spiezio, Safety Officer, Washington County Office of the Safety Officer.

 

Here in Tennessee we are pretty lucky with our weather. I know it doesn’t seem that way sometimes though. While we have had temperatures as low as 25 below zero once in my lifetime, we don’t often have weather that cold. I do sometimes quip that Tennessee can have the best weather possible, a day about 68 degrees, a slight breeze, maybe a puffy cloud or two. And we can also have some of the worst weather, 33 degrees and raining. And we can have these, sometimes, a couple of days apart. But, as far as working for several days in a row with temperatures 10, 15, or 20 below zero we don’t have that issue.

With my small story, though, you can see even our weather can be dangerous. I remember a tragedy from my youth. Some Airborne Rangers, one of our elite fighting service men, were on a training mission in North Carolina. The day started out cool, in the 40’s, and dry. These men were dropped off with almost nothing. As the day progressed a light rain accompanied a small drop in temperature, into the 30’s. The combination of wet clothes and cool temperatures led to the deaths of several of these service men.

As stated in Mr. Spiezio’s article the principle concerns in a winter outdoor work scenario are: low temperatures, wind, dampness, and cold water. He also says that the combination of two or more of these situations is what causes dangerous conditions. You may be damp but if it is 80 degrees in the middle of summer you may be uncomfortable but not fighting for your life.

A good situational awareness is always your best protection. Keep an eye on the weather reports. On some occasions, short of an emergency, you may be able to wait until the conditions improve. Sometimes even emergencies may need to wait. You will not be helping the situation by becoming a casualty yourself. Proper protective clothing is your first and best defense against harsh weather conditions. Spiezio boils this down to his three W’s: Wicking, Warming, and Weather.

The layer closest to your skin should be able to wick excess moisture away from your body. One of the four dangers of winter weather is dampness. A good wicking fabric like polypropylene can move the sweat from exertion away from your skin. This keeps you more comfortable as well as warmer and safer.

The purpose of the second layer is to provide most of the insulation character to your attire. There are many natural and man-made fabrics that can provide this for you. Wool is a great natural fiber that you can use. Keep in mind that several thin layers are advantageous over fewer thicker ones. Multiple thin layers will allow you to adjust your insulation throughout the day as the weather changes and as your work load may change.

The third or outermost layer he calls the “Weather” layer. This should be a waterproof and windproof layer. It could also provide some additional insulation. Most of the insulation will come from the layers below this. This outer layer will keep the lower levels dry in case of rain. Wool is a great insulator and will also continue to provide some insulation even while wet. Other fabrics are not so forgiving and need to be kept dry. These can also become heavy and uncomfortable if wet. Also, most of these fabrics, even wool, will allow wind to take heat away from your body through convection. This outer layer should be able to block the wind.

We have so far dealt primarily with your body’s core temperature. This is the most important part. While keeping your core warm is very important, your hands, feet and head also must be considered. At very low temperatures, especially in windy conditions, frostbite can occur very quickly. Keep your extremities covered as much as possible. You may want to consider waterproof foot gear. The same considerations for your core apply to your feet, head and hands as well.

Your work habits should also be adjusted in cold weather. Taking many short breaks will help you avoid fatigue. It will also prevent a lot of sweating which can lead to other problems.

Try to plan your work in the warmest part of the day. This also provides the best lighting which leads to a safer work environment.

Working in pairs is also a good idea. Your work mate may be able to notice things about you that indicate distress. Keep an eye out for each other and seek warmth at the first signs of trouble.

Much of this is common sense to us all. If you are cold, go get warm. It seems simple. But, sometimes we may be trying to finish some important task. After a short time we may become poorer judges of our own well-being and soon we find ourselves in trouble. Work smart and take care of yourselves out there.


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