Cold Stress

A cold environment forces the body to work harder to maintain its temperature. When in a cold environment, most of your body’s energy is used to keep your internal temperature warm, since cold air, water, and snow all draw heat from the body. Over time, your body will begin to shift blood flow from your extremities (hands, feet, arms, and legs) and outer skin to the core (chest and abdomen). This allows exposed skin and the extremities to cool rapidly. Older workers may be at more risk than younger ones, since older people are not able to generate heat as quickly. Medications such as antidepressants, sedatives and tranquilizers may prevent the body from generating heat normally.

Audience

Cold stress is a common hazard in emergency response activities such as natural disasters. Workers in this line of work may be required to work in cold environments for extended periods