THE DANGERS OF COLD STRESS

Most people are aware of the dangers associated with working in extreme heat. However, the cold can be just as hazardous. Did you know that working in cold conditions can also lead to serious health problems and even workplace injuries? These types of conditions are collectively known as cold stress.

Cold stress occurs when workers are exposed to extreme cold or work in cold environments. When temperatures drop below normal and as wind increases, heat can more rapidly leave your body. This results in various cold stress illnesses, including:

  • Hypothermia
  • Frostbite
  • Chilblains
  • Trench foot

What constitutes cold stress can vary from state to state. In North Carolina,
winters aren’t considered as bad as other regions that are more
accustomed to frigid weather. However, general symptoms of a cold stress
event may include:

  • Redness
  • Shivering
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of coordination
  • Numbness
  • Tingling or stinging in extremities
  • Bluish, pale or waxy skin
  • Muscle cramps

Cold stress and cold weather-related workplace injuries are not something to take lightly. If you or one of your coworkers believes you are experiencing a cold stress event, be sure to seek warmth as quickly as possible. If the injury appears to be severe or life-threatening, call for medical assistance immediately.

Working outside may be a part of the job. But sustaining injury or illness due to an employer’s negligence is not. If you have been injured while on the job, or sustained any cold related illness because your employer did not properly protect you from the winter environment, the attorneys at Ricci Law Firm Injury Lawyers can help. With years of experience of fighting for the rights of hard North Carolina workers, we can help you with your case.

If you are in the Greenville area and would like to learn more about how our lawyers can help you with your workplace injury claim, give us a call at (252) 777-2222 to schedule your initial consultation.