Category: cold stress
Staying Safe Up on the Rooftop and in Extreme Temperatures
As Santa prepares to head out for the big night, we have a few last-minute bits of advice to keep him safe in the elements and while working at heights. Fall Prevention With the amount of time Santa spends “up on the rooftop” a review of the NIOSH falls prevention materials is an essential item Read More >
Posted on by 1 CommentThe Physiological Response of Working in Cold Environments and how your PPE can Help
Recent NIOSH science blogs have discussed the physiological impact of wearing respirators. The first blog in this vein explored the Physiological Burden of Prolonged PPE Use on Healthcare Workers during Long Shifts, including potential CO2 buildup. A second blog addressed Heat Stress Imposed by PPE Worn in Hot and Humid Environments and how healthcare Read More >
Posted on by 2 CommentsHigh Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among Poultry Workers
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) of the upper extremities among poultry processing employees are well documented (Lipscomb et al. 2008; Cartwright et al. 2012). The combination of highly repetitive tasks, forceful movements and working in cold temperatures can increase risk for MSDs such as carpal tunnel syndrome, a disabling medical condition affecting the hands and wrists. In Read More >
Posted on by 11 CommentsSafety for Santa
Our recent blog on Superhero personal protective equipment got us thinking: What about Santa? He certainly faces a number of occupational hazards. Maybe we can help him out. Let’s start with the chimney. Talk about a confined space and what about the cancer risk? Are those pants fire retardant? Santa may want to follow our research on Read More >
Posted on by 43 CommentsCold Stress
Frostbite, hypothermia, trench foot, and chilblains are all illnesses and injuries caused by cold stress. Those working outside or in areas that are poorly insulated or without heat may be at risk for cold stress. There are many steps employers and employees can take to protect workers from cold stress-related injuries and illnesses. Read More >
Posted on by 11 Comments