The winter months are especially hazardous for people who work outdoors, but cold exposure also affects employees in other industries and in warmer climates where refrigeration or cold rooms are used.
These workers include:
- Delivery people
- Postal workers
- Maritime employees
- Food processing workers
- Cold storage industry workers
- Supermarket workers
- Tow truck operators
What ongoing cold exposure does
Hypothermia
Extended cold exposure first affects the extremities — hands, feet, ears — and can then lower the body's core temperature. If the core temperature falls below about 95°F, the worker may develop hypothermia, a serious medical emergency.
Frostbite
Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, forming ice crystals in body fluids. Severe frostbite can cause permanent damage to fingers, toes, ears, and the nose and may require amputation in extreme cases.
Other significant cold-weather illnesses
- Cold immersion
- Chilblains
- Trench foot (immersion foot)
Prevention of cold weather injuries
Keeping feet warm and dry is key to preventing trench foot and frostbite of the foot; insulated, waterproof boots reduce risk. Layered clothing, insulated undergarments, and cold-weather outerwear help preserve body heat and reduce hypothermia risk.
Employers can reduce hazards by providing appropriate personal protective equipment, allowing warm-up breaks, and using space heaters where safe. For businesses with seasonal exposures, consider Winter Weather Insurance to help protect operations during cold months.
Operations that rely on specialized machinery or spare parts in cold environments should review equipment coverage options such as Industrial Equipment and Spare Parts Insurance to manage the financial risk of breakdowns or damage.
Preventing cold weather injuries is better than treating them and risking higher workers' compensation costs; if you are unsure which protections are appropriate, talk to an agent about options for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of hypothermia?
Early signs include intense shivering, slurred speech, clumsiness, and confusion; seek warm shelter and medical attention if symptoms progress.
How quickly can frostbite occur?
Frostbite can occur within minutes in very cold or windy conditions, especially if skin is wet or exposed to freezing temperatures.
Can regular work boots prevent trench foot?
Regular boots may not be enough; waterproof, insulated boots and keeping feet dry are the most effective preventive measures.
When should an employer provide warm-up breaks?
Provide warm-up breaks whenever workers are exposed to cold conditions long enough that their core temperature or extremities may become dangerously cold.