Ohio winters are long, gray, and cold. Temperatures can plummet below zero, often accompanied by strong winds, sleet, snow, and ice. For the thousands of Ohioans who work outdoors in construction, maintenance, and other professions, these conditions present a significant risk for cold-related illnesses and injuries. According to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, a significant number of people suffer nonfatal workplace injuries each year, and cold exposure is a serious contributing factor.
Understanding the risks, knowing the warning signs of illness, and taking proper preventative measures is crucial for staying safe. This guide covers the basics of cold-related workplace illnesses and the steps both employees and employers should take to prevent them.
Essentially, any worker exposed to severe cold is at risk. This includes people who work in construction, road maintenance, repair services, and any other outdoor profession. The threat of an illness is especially high when employees are not dressed appropriately or become overworked and exhausted.
Additionally, some health conditions can make a person more susceptible to the cold. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) points out that anyone with diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), and hypothyroidism could be at an increased risk.
The two most common and dangerous conditions that arise from prolonged exposure to extreme cold are hypothermia and frostbite. Both are serious medical situations that require immediate attention.
Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Initially, a person may shiver or stomp their feet in an effort to keep warm. However, as the situation progresses and becomes more severe, the shivering will actually stop.
Warning signs of worsening hypothermia include:
If you suspect someone has hypothermia, move them to a warm, dry area, remove any wet clothing, and layer them with blankets. If left untreated, hypothermia can be fatal. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that an average of 1,301 people died each year from 1999 to 2011 due to exposure-related hypothermia.
Frostbite is an injury caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. The areas most vulnerable are the extremities, such as fingers, toes, the nose, ears, cheeks, and chin.
Warning signs of frostbite include:
If you experience these symptoms, loosely cover the affected area to protect it. Do not rub the area, as this can cause more tissue damage. Seek immediate medical attention.
Prevention is the most effective way to combat cold-related injuries. Both employees and employers have a role to play in ensuring a safe work environment.
The best way to insulate your body is to wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing, as opposed to a single bulky item. Tight clothing can restrict blood circulation, which is vital for keeping your extremities warm. Your layers should include:
Always cover your extremities. Wear insulated gloves, warm socks, and cover your ears and face. A hat is essential, as it traps the significant amount of body heat that would otherwise escape from your head.
Socks, gloves, or other clothing can easily get wet during the course of work, rendering them useless against the cold. When possible, workers should keep extra cold-weather gear in a vehicle or other accessible location. It’s a good idea to have an extra pair of socks and gloves, another hat, a spare jacket, and a blanket. Experts also recommend keeping a full change of clothes and a thermos with a hot liquid on hand.
According to OSHA, employers are required to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, which includes dangers from extreme cold. Employers should provide a warm, dry space where workers can take breaks to escape the elements. It is also wise to schedule projects that require extended outdoor work for warmer months whenever possible. Having extra staff on hand can also be helpful, as it allows workers to rotate and take longer breaks out of the cold.
If you develop symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite at work, seek immediate medical attention. After your health is stabilized, it is important to understand your rights.
In Ohio, any company that employs at least one person must carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect workers against injuries and illnesses that occur on the job. If you suffer a cold-related illness because of your work conditions, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are designed to cover the cost of your medical treatment and a portion of your missed wages if you are unable to work during your recovery.
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be complex. If you have suffered a cold-related illness or any other injury on the job, our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and fight for the benefits you deserve.
We handle all workers’ compensation claims on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe us no attorney fees unless we successfully recover benefits for you.
To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, call our Columbus office today or contact us online.
