Outdoor workers exposed to cold, wet, windy conditions are at risk for cold stress. Both air temperature and wind speed affect how cold they feel. Remember that not everybody experiences cold conditions the same way. Some people are more sensitive to the cold than others. Their body temperature may be lower than 98.6 degrees to start off with -they are known as “cold-natured”; Others’ body temperature may be more “warm-natured” having a body temperature above 98.6 degrees. Take this into consideration when assigning work outdoors in the winter.

Windchill is the term used to describe the rate of heat loss from the human body, resulting from the combined effect of low air temperature and wind speed. The windchill temperature is a single value that takes both air temperature and wind speed into account. For example, when the air temperature is 40 degrees F, and wind speed is 35 mph, the wind chill temperature is 28 degrees F; This measurement is the actual effect of the environmental cold on exposed skin. Add moisture (rain, snow, high humidity) to the mix and it further increases the risk of cold stress illness.

Remember to watch your local weather forecasts and take measures to protect your employees working outdoors. A little preventive planning can save time, money, and suffering.