Preventing Frostbite on the Jobsite with the Right PPE

If your business involves working outdoors in cold weather conditions, it's extremely important that you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your team members from frostbite and other cold-related hazards at the jobsite. In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the many types of personal protective equipment (PPE) that your business can use to keep employees warm without sacrificing mobility and productivity. These garments and accessories can be a crucial and worthwhile investment for any business operating in outdoor environments where frostbite is possible.

Prioritize protecting employees' ears and noses from frostbite on the jobsite by providing appropriate protective gear such as earmuffs, hats, liners, and face masks. For those wearing hard hats, consider a liner with ear flaps, as keeping the ears protected from cold is vitally important. For nose protection, use masks or nose warmers, and consider petroleum jelly in a pinch. Products with a fleece lining can be particularly helpful in cold-weather industries.

Equip workers with insulated gloves and mittens or products with a double-layer lining to protect them from frostbite without sacrificing dexterity and comfort. Gloves and mittens with high-quality insulation can keep workers warm and safe on the job without irritating the skin and won't prevent them from accomplishing the task at hand.

Keeping workers' toes warm and protected from outdoor weather is another essential step in preventing frostbite at the jobsite. Thermal socks should be one tool in your arsenal—but make sure they're not so thick that they reduce circulation in the feet. You should also keep multiple pairs of insulated boots on hand for each worker so they can alternate pairs to allow the cushioning to decompress.

For whole-body protection against frostbite in cold weather conditions, use heavy coats and thermally insulated jackets that keep workers warm without sacrificing mobility. Other specially designed garments may also include features like electric heating and are often designed for layering that supports full protection and productivity in cold spaces. 

What are the symptoms of frostbite?

Common symptoms of frostbite include numbness in the affected area, as well as tingling, stinging, and aching. Workers may also have bluish or pale, waxy skin and blisters in severe cases.

What steps should be taken for someone who is suffering from frostbite?

Seek medical attention immediately. Follow OSHA's guidelines for frostbite and hypothermia in working conditions. Avoid rubbing the area (which can cause further damage) and don't apply snow or water. Loosely cover the affected area and do not attempt to rewarm it before medical care arrives, as this can also cause damage to tissues. Give the affected person warm, sweetened drinks, but avoid alcohol.

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Frostbite is an extremely serious body injury that typically affects the extremities and can occur as temperatures get colder. For businesses with outdoor operations in cold climates, it's critical to protect all workers from the risk of frostbite with proper PPE and education. With the right precautions in place, you can get your work done safely and effectively while avoiding the risk of frostbite altogether.

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Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.