Health Effects of Working in the Cold

Updated:
October 2, 2018

Workers exposed to extremely cold conditions are at risk of serious health problems, including hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration, and muscle injuries.

Frigid temperatures can also cause additional pain for those who suffer from arthritis and rheumatism.

If employees have any of the following symptoms, they should get indoors and alert their supervisor or call for medical attention if the symptoms don't subside:

  • Uncontrollable shivering
  • Slurred speech
  • Clumsy movements
  • Fatigue
  • Confused behaviour
  • White or greyish-yellow areas of the skin
  • Skin that feels waxy
  • Numbness

It's important to note that many people suffering from the warning signs of frostbite do not notice because the tissue is numb. Therefore, it's wise for employees to check on each other periodically.

There is not exact temperature at which the environment become hazardous. Instead, factors such as low temperatures, wind speed, and wetness contribute to cold-induced injuries and illnesses.

The following are some important things to note about working in cold weather.

  • Exposed skin freezes within one minute at -29C when the wind speed is 8 KM/hour. Skin will freeze at 10C if the wind speed is 32 KM/h.
  • When skin or clothing is wet, injury or illness can occur in temperatures above -12C and even above 0C.
  • When the body is unable to warm itself, hypothermia and frostbite can set in, resulting in permanent tissue damage and even death.

To reduce the risk of cold-induced injuries, employees should layer clothing, wear a hat, and seek shelter at the first sign of hazardous working conditions.

FAQs

What is financial advising?

Financial advising involves providing guidance and advice to individuals, families, or businesses to help them make informed decisions about their financial matters. This can include various aspects such as investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and more. Financial advisors analyze their clients' financial situations, goals, and risk tolerance to create customized strategies that align with their objectives.

Why is financial planning important?

Financial planning is crucial for several reasons:

Goal Achievement: It helps individuals set and achieve financial goals, whether they are short-term, such as buying a home, or long-term, like funding a comfortable retirement.

Risk Management: Financial planning addresses risks by considering insurance, emergency funds, and other protective measures.

Budgeting and Saving: It promotes responsible money management through budgeting and saving, fostering financial stability.

Wealth Building: Effective financial planning can lead to wealth accumulation and the creation of a secure financial future.

Can financial advisors help with debt?

Yes, financial advisors can help with debt management. They can assess your overall financial situation, create a budget, and develop strategies to pay down debt efficiently. They may also negotiate with creditors on your behalf, provide debt consolidation recommendations, and offer guidance on prioritizing and managing debt repayment.

What exactly does a financial advisor do?

The specific responsibilities of a financial advisor can vary, but generally, they:

  1. Conduct a thorough analysis of a client's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
  2. Develop personalized financial plans based on the client's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
  3. Provide investment advice and portfolio management services.
  4. Offer guidance on retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and insurance.
  5. Monitor and adjust financial plans as needed based on changes in the client's life or market conditions.
  6. Educate clients on financial matters and empower them to make informed decisions.
What is the average fee for a financial advisor?

The fees charged by financial advisors can vary widely based on factors such as the advisor's experience, the services provided, and the region.

Common fee structures include:

Hourly Fees: Advisors charge an hourly rate for their services.
Flat or Fixed Fees: A set fee is charged for specific services or a comprehensive financial plan.
Asset-based Fees: Fees are a percentage of the assets under management (AUM).
Commission-based Fees: Advisors earn commissions on financial products they sell.
Combination of Fees: Advisors may use a combination of the above fee structures.
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It's important to discuss and clarify fee arrangements with a potential financial advisor before engaging in their services.