With the arrival of the colder months, companies face the challenge of protecting the health of their workers from exposure to low temperatures. According to Quirón Prevención, a benchmark in the field of occupational hazards, it is crucial to implement effective strategies to care for those who perform their work outdoors, at heights, or in environments with low temperatures.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Hygiene at Work warns about the impact of temperatures below 15°C, where thermal discomfort begins, becoming a significant risk below 5°C. This cold not only causes discomfort, but also affects manual dexterity, cognitive capacity, and physical endurance, increasing the likelihood of injuries, cardiovascular problems, and respiratory problems. The most serious complications include hypothermia and freezing.
To counteract these effects, Quirón Prevención suggests various measures. Among the recommendations are the creation of heated spaces for employees' recovery, proper planning of outdoor tasks according to the weather, and the use of insulation systems to reduce physical load.
The individual role of workers is equally crucial. It is recommended to wear clothing that keeps you warm without restricting perspiration, to drink hot beverages, to change wet clothes quickly, and to adjust the pace of work. This suitable clothing acts as protective equipment, creating a barrier against heat loss.
The training and education about the risks of cold are fundamental. Workers must be able to identify warning signs and know how to respond appropriately to protect their health and maintain their performance.
Quirón Prevención highlights the importance of personalizing the preventive strategy, since each individual responds differently to the cold. This requires an approach that combines knowledge, preparation, and ongoing care. Adopting these practices promotes a safer and healthier work environment, reducing the risk of accidents and illnesses.
