Weather

Want to live a longer and healthier life? Stay well-hydrated, say researchers from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

In Episode 36, the S+H team dives into the February issue’s feature story on the hazards of working in cold weather. Additionally, Mike Kassman, director of OSHA and disaster response training at CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training, discusses ladder safety.

Protecting workers from frigid outdoor conditions requires awareness, planning and training. We've got seven tips for workers and safety professionals.

Last year I made a decision to move from the Midwest – where I’ve lived my entire life – to the Deep South.

“Even skin that is protected can be subject to frostbite,” the National Safety Council says. Signs of frostbite include skin that looks red, white, bluish-white, grayish-yellow, purplish, brown or ashen, depending on the severity of the condition and the person’s skin color. The affected area may feel numb as well. The condition can affect the fingers, toes, ears and face.

“Workers – both indoors and outdoors – in services, transportation, agriculture, construction and other industries may be exposed to environmental cold stress that can lead to thermal discomfort, and in some cases even severe injuries, illnesses or death,” NIOSH warns.

Raynaud’s phenomenon – sometimes called Raynaud’s syndrome or disease – is a disorder of blood circulation in the fingers and toes (and less commonly in the ears and nose). The cause: Several.

How can emergency responders best be prepared with proper respiratory protection this hurricane season?

A thorough workplace safety and health plan should include steps to protect workers from cold-related hazards. This is particularly important for workers in the services, transportation, construction and agriculture industries.

When a natural disaster, biological incident or other event occurs, first responders and recovery workers often rush to the scene. That means it’s crucial they have the proper personal protective equipment ready and know how to use it.