Winter beckons: Are your at-risk employees ready for the cold? (12/2)
OSHA is reminding employers and employees to take necessary precautions to prevent and treat cold-related health problems.
Employees in construction, commercial fishing, maritime and agriculture are particularly susceptible to the effects of cold. Here are a several ways employers can help protect their employees in cold environments, according to OSHA:
Recognize the environment ental and workplace conditions that may be dangerous.
Train workers about the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses and injuries and how to assist.
In extreme cold, allow employees to take frequent short breaks in warm and dry shelters.
If feasible, use the buddy system - work in pairs so employees can recognize danger signs and take action.
The agency's Cold Stress Pocket Card is available online and provides a reference guide and recommendations to combat and prevent many cold-related injuries and illnesses.
Employees in construction, commercial fishing, maritime and agriculture are particularly susceptible to the effects of cold. Here are a several ways employers can help protect their employees in cold environments, according to OSHA:
Recognize the environment ental and workplace conditions that may be dangerous.
Train workers about the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses and injuries and how to assist.
In extreme cold, allow employees to take frequent short breaks in warm and dry shelters.
If feasible, use the buddy system - work in pairs so employees can recognize danger signs and take action.
The agency's Cold Stress Pocket Card is available online and provides a reference guide and recommendations to combat and prevent many cold-related injuries and illnesses.
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