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20 355-BQD-01-IAAP © 2024, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) | 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | WSPS.CA Landscape Ontario – Workplace Safety Tailgate Talks COLD STRESS AND WORKING IN COLD WEATHER Personal Protective Equipment Studies have shown response to cold in women can differ from men. While the core body temperature cools more quickly in men, men are usually able to create as much metabolic heat through exercise or shivering. In addi�on, the rate of cooling of the extremi�es (feet, hands) is slower among men. As a result, women are generally at a greater risk of injuries related to cold stress than men (Liu et al., 2018). Cold stress can reduce muscle strength; s�ffen joints and affect mental alertness and are reasons why incidents are more likely to occur in very cold working condi�ons. Prevention Points Normal body temperature is 37°C and cold stress occurs when the body's temperature drops below 35°C, leading to health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite occurs when parts of the body freeze resulting in the destruction of skin and underlying tissue, while hypothermia occurs when the body's core temperature drops below the required temperature for normal metabolism and body functions. Generally, body heat is lost by breathing in cold air, sweating, touching something cold, exposing skin and being hit by wind. It is important to observe the combination of temperature, wind chill and air moisture to determine how to dress, appropriate activities and your maximum exposure to the elements. Review the General Health & Safety Best Practices section on page 7 before performing any task. Ensure all exposed skin is covered in the winter. Select insulated clothing which best suits the wind chill temperatures. Always wear a hat and boots, 40% of body heat is lost through an uncovered head. Garments close to the skin should wick sweat from the skin surface. Wear multiple layers (light, looser clothing can trap air between layers to provide warmth and insulation) under a waterproof outer layer. Remove as temperatures increase and according to comfort level. Avoid clothing that may present entanglement hazards, e.g. scarfs. NOTE: mittens are warmer than gloves since they keep the fingers together for greater warmth. Do not stay out in the cold if your clothing becomes wet or damp. Bring extra clothing to work to change into, particularly socks. ! !