Anyone who has a Victorian Forklift Licence or has undergone elevated work platform training will tell you that working at height can be dangerous if you are not prepared for the cold weather. Many people who work at heights, such as while using elevated work platforms, could be at risk of hypothermia.
What is hypothermia and how does it occur in workers at heights?
Hypothermia is a condition that occurs when your body temperature falls below 35 degrees Celsius. It can cause fatalities if left untreated. The symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
For several reasons, this can occur in workers at heights. One reason is that they are exposed to the elements for prolonged periods. Another reason is that they may be working in an area where there is a high wind chill factor.
There are several ways you can avoid hypothermia while working at heights. First, dress warmly in layers of clothing that will keep you insulated from the cold air. Second, take breaks frequently to warm up your body and prevent yourself from getting too cold. Third, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids (preferably warm ones) to avoid dehydration, which can make symptoms worse. Finally, be aware of the signs and symptoms so that you can identify them early and get treatment if necessary.
If you start to experience any symptoms, such as shivering, confusion, or drowsiness, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Hypothermia can be very dangerous and even fatal if not treated promptly.
Symptoms of hypothermia and what to do if someone experiences them.
The symptoms of hypothermia include:
- Shivering: This is usually the first symptom of hypothermia and is a sign that your body is trying to generate heat.
- As the body temperature drops, so does the brain's function. This can lead to confusion and difficulty thinking clearly.
- Drowsiness: A drop in body temperature can make you feel very sleepy.
- Slurred speech occurs as the muscles start to stiffen from the cold weather.
If you or someone else starts to experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Hypothermia can be very dangerous and even fatal if not treated promptly. Treatment includes warming the person up gradually with blankets and warm fluids. If you are unable to seek medical attention immediately, some tips to help warm someone up include:
- Get the person out of the cold and into a warm room or shelter.
- Remove any wet clothing and replace it with dry, warm clothing.
- Wrap the person in blankets or other warm materials.
- Place a hot water bottle or heating pad on the person's stomach, back, or neck.
- Give the person warm fluids to drink, but avoid alcohol.
Prevention tips for workers to avoid hypothermia while working at height.
Prevention is always better than cure, so how can you avoid hypothermia while working at height?
- Wear the right clothing. This includes dressing in layers, wearing waterproof and windproof outerwear, and keeping your head and extremities (hands and feet) covered.
- Take frequent breaks. Working in the cold can cause your body to lose heat faster than it can produce it. Take a break every 20 minutes or so to warm up.
- Eat and drink regularly. Eating regular meals helps maintain your body temperature, as does drinking warm fluids. Avoid alcohol, as it causes your body to lose heat more quickly.
- Know the signs: these include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, slurred speech, and fumbling hands. If you or someone you are working with shows any of these signs, get out of the cold and call for medical help immediately.
- Before heading out to work, check the forecast for wind chill warnings or extreme cold alerts. If possible, reschedule your work for another day.
How to treat hypothermia if it does occur.
You must treat hypothermia as soon as someone shows symptoms. If the person with hypothermia is alert, have them drink warm, sweetened fluids like hot chocolate or cider. You can also give them warm, dry clothing and blankets to help increase their body temperature. If the person with hypothermia is unconscious, call for medical help immediately and begin CPR if you are trained to do so.
Many people are of the impression that the cold may not cause them any serious harm and will tend to take it lightly when working, especially those working at heights and in extreme weather conditions. However, hypothermia can be a serious condition, but it is preventable if you take the proper precautions when working in cold weather. If not treated in time this can lead to many more health complications and serious after-effects, which could also leave you out of work for some time as well. Prevention is always better than cure, and this is very much true when it comes to Hypothermia. By following these tips, you can stay safe and avoid becoming a victim of the cold.
When using elevated work platforms, following the right course in forklift training in Melbourne is essential, because these courses will cover what you should and should not do if you encounter such situations as hypothermia or any other medical issue. If you are unsure about anything, always ask a supervisor or the safety officer on site. Safety should always be the number one priority. Adhere to set safety regulations and make sure that you take care of yourself while you are at work.
