Cold weather poses significant risks to outdoor workers, with one of the most serious threats being hypothermia. Understanding and preventing this condition are essential for maintaining worker safety in the refractory and industrial construction sectors.
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to dangerously low body temperatures. It’s critical for contractors and plant engineers to recognize the symptoms early and take preventive measures.
- Ensure workers are dressed in appropriate layers to trap body heat and wick moisture away from the skin.
- Monitor workers for signs of excessive cold exposure, such as shivering, fatigue, and slurred speech.
- Implement regular breaks in warmer areas to help reduce exposure time to cold conditions.
By prioritizing hypothermia prevention strategies, contractors can safeguard their workforce’s health and improve overall operational efficiency during cold months.
Source: https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/27548-hypothermia-dos-and-donts