OSEA Safety Blog

Working outdoors during the winter can be tough—especially when temperatures drop, and the wind picks up. Whether you're working in construction, delivery, landscaping, or any other outdoor job, cold stress is a real risk that can lead to serious health issues like hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot. But with the right precautions, you can stay safe and warm, even in the harshest conditions. Here are some essential cold stress and winter safety tips for outdoor workers.

What Is Cold Stress?

Cold stress happens when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, which can lead to dangerous health conditions. There are several types of cold stress to be aware of:

• Hypothermia: This occurs when your body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), causing confusion, fatigue, and impaired coordination. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
• Frostbite: When skin and tissue freeze, usually on your fingers, toes, ears, or nose. Early signs include numbness or a pale appearance, which can progress to permanent damage if not treated.
• Trench Foot: Prolonged exposure to cold, wet conditions can lead to trench foot, which causes swelling, numbness, and blisters on the feet. It can lead to infection if not addressed.

1. Dress in Layers

The best defense against cold stress is dressing properly. Layering is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, which pulls sweat away from your skin. Next, add an insulating layer (think fleece or wool) that traps heat, followed by a waterproof, windproof outer layer to protect against the elements.

Don’t forget your extremities! Insulated gloves, thick socks, and a warm hat or balaclava can prevent frostbite on your fingers, toes, and ears. Waterproof boots are also a must for keeping your feet warm and dry.

2. Stay Dry

Wet clothing can make cold stress much worse. If you’re caught in snow or rain, change into dry clothes as soon as possible. Consider packing extra socks, gloves, and clothing so that you can quickly swap out wet items. Waterproof outerwear can help keep you dry in the first place, and moisture-wicking fabrics in your base layers will help prevent sweat buildup.

3. Take Regular Breaks in a Warm Space

When you're working in extreme cold, it’s essential to take breaks in a warmer environment. If possible, step into a heated vehicle, warming tent, or building every hour or so to give your body a chance to recover. During these breaks, drink warm beverages (but avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can dehydrate you) and remove any wet clothing. This will help prevent your body temperature from dropping too low.

4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

It’s easy to forget about hydration when it's cold, but your body still needs fluids to stay healthy. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and aim for warm, non-caffeinated beverages to keep your body temperature regulated. Eating high-energy, nutritious foods like nuts, protein bars, or soups can also help your body generate heat and maintain energy levels.

5. Monitor the Weather and Adjust Your Schedule

Before heading out to work, always check the weather forecast. If extreme temperatures, snow, or wind chills are predicted, adjust your work schedule or plan to take extra precautions. If temperatures are dangerously low, consider rescheduling non-essential tasks for warmer days.

On especially cold days, rotate workers frequently to minimize the amount of time anyone is exposed to the cold. Prioritize essential tasks and take advantage of breaks to warm up and recover.

6. Recognize the Signs of Cold Stress Early

Knowing the symptoms of cold stress is critical for preventing serious health issues. Watch out for signs of hypothermia (shivering, confusion, slurred speech), frostbite (numbness, pale skin, tingling), and trench foot (swelling, numbness, blisters). If you or a coworker starts showing symptoms, take immediate action to warm up and seek medical help if necessary.

• Hypothermia: Get indoors or into a warmer area, remove wet clothes, and warm up gradually with blankets and dry clothing.
• Frostbite: Gently warm the affected areas using warm (not hot) water, and avoid rubbing the skin.
• Trench Foot: Dry and warm the feet slowly, and avoid walking on them until they’re fully re-warmed.

In all cases, if symptoms don’t improve or worsen, seek medical attention right away.

7. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

In addition to wearing warm clothing, make sure you're using any required personal protective equipment (PPE) for your specific job. This might include safety goggles, helmets, face shields, or reflective vests. Make sure your PPE is compatible with your winter gear and doesn’t interfere with your ability to stay warm or move comfortably.

Working outdoors in winter doesn’t have to be dangerous if you take the right steps to protect yourself from cold stress. Dressing in layers, staying dry, taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and recognizing the early signs of cold stress are all key to staying safe on the job. By preparing for the cold, you can minimize the risks of hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related conditions—ensuring a safer, more productive workday, even in the harshest winter conditions. Stay safe, stay warm, and be mindful of your health this winter season.