A Guide to Winter Weather Workplace Safety in Ohio
Understanding and Preventing Cold-Related Illnesses on the Job
Ohio winters are long, gray, and cold. Temperatures can plummet below zero, often accompanied by strong winds, sleet, snow, and ice. For the thousands of Ohioans who work outdoors in construction, maintenance, and other professions, these conditions present a significant risk for cold-related illnesses and injuries. According to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, a significant number of people suffer nonfatal workplace injuries each year, and cold exposure is a serious contributing factor.
Understanding the risks, knowing the warning signs of illness, and taking proper preventative measures is crucial for staying safe. This guide covers the basics of cold-related workplace illnesses and the steps both employees and employers should take to prevent them.
Who is at Risk for Cold-Related Illness?
Essentially, any worker exposed to severe cold is at risk. This includes people who work in construction, road maintenance, repair services, and any other outdoor profession. The threat of an illness is especially high when employees are not dressed appropriately or become overworked and exhausted.
Additionally, some health conditions can make a person more susceptible to the cold. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) points out that anyone with diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), and hypothyroidism could be at an increased risk.
Understanding Cold-Related Illnesses: Hypothermia and Frostbite
The two most common and dangerous conditions that arise from prolonged exposure to extreme cold are hypothermia and frostbite. Both are serious medical situations that require immediate attention.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Initially, a person may shiver or stomp their feet in an effort to keep warm. However, as the situation progresses and becomes more severe, the shivering will actually stop.
Warning signs of worsening hypothermia include:
- Confusion and disorientation
- Slurred speech and drowsiness
- Clumsiness and loss of coordination
- Extremely low energy
If you suspect someone has hypothermia, move them to a warm, dry area, remove any wet clothing, and layer them with blankets. If left untreated, hypothermia can be fatal. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that an average of 1,301 people died each year from 1999 to 2011 due to exposure-related hypothermia.
Frostbite
Frostbite is an injury caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. The areas most vulnerable are the extremities, such as fingers, toes, the nose, ears, cheeks, and chin.
Warning signs of frostbite include:
- Numbness and a loss of feeling in the affected area.
- A change in skin color to white, gray, or yellow patches.
- Skin that appears waxy or feels unusually firm or hard to the touch.
- Blisters may appear in severe cases.
If you experience these symptoms, loosely cover the affected area to protect it. Do not rub the area, as this can cause more tissue damage. Seek immediate medical attention.
How to Prevent Cold-Related Illnesses at Work
Prevention is the most effective way to combat cold-related injuries. Both employees and employers have a role to play in ensuring a safe work environment.
1. Dress for the Job in Layers
The best way to insulate your body is to wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing, as opposed to a single bulky item. Tight clothing can restrict blood circulation, which is vital for keeping your extremities warm. Your layers should include:
- An inner layer of moisture-wicking fabric.
- A middle layer of insulating material, like wool or fleece.
- An outer layer that is waterproof and windproof.
Always cover your extremities. Wear insulated gloves, warm socks, and cover your ears and face. A hat is essential, as it traps the significant amount of body heat that would otherwise escape from your head.
2. Keep Extra Gear Nearby
Socks, gloves, or other clothing can easily get wet during the course of work, rendering them useless against the cold. When possible, workers should keep extra cold-weather gear in a vehicle or other accessible location. It’s a good idea to have an extra pair of socks and gloves, another hat, a spare jacket, and a blanket. Experts also recommend keeping a full change of clothes and a thermos with a hot liquid on hand.
3. Limit Exposure and Take Regular Breaks
According to OSHA, employers are required to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, which includes dangers from extreme cold. Employers should provide a warm, dry space where workers can take breaks to escape the elements. It is also wise to schedule projects that require extended outdoor work for warmer months whenever possible. Having extra staff on hand can also be helpful, as it allows workers to rotate and take longer breaks out of the cold.
What to Do If You Suffer a Cold-Related Illness on the Job
If you develop symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite at work, seek immediate medical attention. After your health is stabilized, it is important to understand your rights.
In Ohio, any company that employs at least one person must carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect workers against injuries and illnesses that occur on the job. If you suffer a cold-related illness because of your work conditions, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are designed to cover the cost of your medical treatment and a portion of your missed wages if you are unable to work during your recovery.
Contact an Ohio Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be complex. If you have suffered a cold-related illness or any other injury on the job, our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and fight for the benefits you deserve.
We handle all workers’ compensation claims on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe us no attorney fees unless we successfully recover benefits for you.
To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, call our Columbus office today or contact us online.