Staying safe in cold weather.

• Position: Winter Workplace

Many of the most useful measures for protection from the cold come from common sense. Do not wait for an unpleasant experience to err on the cautious side; select proper clothing for cold, wet, or windy conditions, recommends the Industrial Hygiene Association, Chantilly, Va.

Employers should have extra insulated clothing available when temperatures unexpectedly drop below 40[degrees]F. Layer clothing to adjust to changing environmental temperatures. Wear a hat and gloves in addition to polypropylene underwear that will keep water away from the skin. Take frequent short breaks in protected shelter to allow the body to warm up, and perform work during the least-chilly part of the day. Use the buddy system, and avoid exhaustion or fatigue because energy is needed to keep muscles warm. Drink warm, sweet beverages such as sugar water and sports drinks, but avoid those with caffeine or alcohol. Prepare for the cold with a hot, high-calorie meal, such as pasta.

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Certain workers are more at risk of distress from cold exposure than others, including individuals with certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Also at greater risk are workers who are in poor physical condition, have a poor diet, are older, or those who take certain medications. However, all workers can be at risk of frostbite and hypothermia if the conditions are right but preparations are not.

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These are the warnings signs of frostbite: deep layers of skin and tissue begin to freeze and the skin becomes hard and numb; its color is pale or waxy white. The fingers, hands, toes, feet, ears, and nose most typically are affected. If frostbite is suspected, move the person to a warm, dry area and keep watch. It is very important not to rub the affected area because that will cause damage to the skin and tissue. Remove wet or tight clothing that may cut off blood flow. Gently place the affected area in 105[degrees] water. Monitor the water temperature to warm the tissue slowly for approximately 25 to 40 minutes. Do not pour warm water directly on the affected area because it will warm the tissue too quickly causing tissue damage.

After the area is warmed, it may have a feeling of burning or numbness and may be puffy and blister. When normal feeling, movement, and skin color return, dry the affected area and wrap to keep if warm. Do not...