Working in the Cold

Not all of us will be able to escape Old Man Winter, and for those that have to work out doors, winter can have dangerous consequences due to prolonged exposure.  In order to avoid potential risks, the onus is on employers to ensure their workers are kept safe.

Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour, Ric McIver said “All employers should be making sure they’re taking all necessary precautions to protect their workers from health problems caused by cold exposure.”

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Centre, employers have to take steps to reduce the effect of cold weather on their employees, and these steps include:

• Providing a heated shelter for workers to work in or take breaks in
• Allowing workers extra breaks if needed
• Shielding workers from drafts or winds
• Educating workers on the hazards of working in the cold

Working out in the bitter cold can have serious consequences, including frost nip, frost bite, swollen, tingling and painful skin, and hypothermia.  The effects of hypothermia include shivering, confusion and fatigue.  Lethbridge Firefighter/Paramedic Thomas Marischuk says, “If you see someone with these symptoms you need to get them warmed up, take them to a warm place, and help them warm up from the inside out by giving them warm beverages – preferably ones that aren’t caffeinated.”