Cold Stress and Hypothermia

Why cold is dangerous

Cold stress occurs when the body cannot maintain its core temperature. Wind chill dramatically increases the rate of heat loss — 30°F with 20 mph wind feels like 17°F to exposed skin. Cold stress can escalate from discomfort to frostbite to hypothermia faster than most workers expect.

Frostbite

Frostbite affects extremities first — fingers, toes, nose, ears. Warning signs: numbness, skin turning white or grayish-yellow, waxy or hard texture. First aid: get to a warm area, do not rub the affected area, do not walk on frostbitten feet. Seek medical attention. Do not rewarm if there is risk of refreezing.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when core body temperature drops below 95°F. Symptoms progress from shivering to confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination, and eventually unconsciousness. Shivering that stops suddenly is a danger sign — the body has lost its ability to generate heat. Call 911 immediately for suspected hypothermia.

Prevention

Dress in layers — base layer that wicks moisture away from skin, insulating middle layer, wind-resistant outer layer. Keep dry — wet clothing loses most of its insulating value. Take warming breaks. Eat and drink regularly — your body burns more calories staying warm. Report early symptoms before they become emergencies.

Discussion question

What warming break schedule are we using today, and where is the nearest warm area from this work location?

Documentation Reminder

Record this meeting: date, topic ("Cold Stress and Hypothermia"), names of attendees, and facilitator. A signed attendance sheet filed with your safety records is your training documentation. OSHA treats documented safety meetings as evidence of good faith.