Cold stress

Cold stress affects workers in cold environments. NIOSH explains that when temperatures drop below normal, heat can rapidly leave your body. Outdoor workers, workers in poorly insulated or unheated areas and workers without shelter are at risk. In places unused to winter, near-freezing temperatures count as a factor.

NIOSH lists cold-related illness types: hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot and chilblains. Employers can schedule cold jobs for warmer hours, provide warm liquids and warm break areas, and train crews. Read our cold stress at work guide and the winter hydration check for crews. Compare with heat stress.