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SECTION 3 POTENTIAL HAZARDS I --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Workers should be protected from exposure to extreme cold temperatures so that the body temperature does not fall below 36 degrees celsius (98.6 degrees fahrenheit). Lower body temperature may result in reduced mental alertness, in irrational decision making or loss of consciousness. When the air temperature is below 40 to 45 degrees fahrenheit, workers hall have warm clothing, gloves and heavy socks, such as whole-body thermal underwear, wool socks, or insulated gloves and knit caps or hard hat liners. If the clothing of the worker can become wet on the job site, an outer impermeable layer will be worn. When the worker's underclothing becomes wet, he must change into dry clothing. The following provisions will also be made: Hot liquids shall be provided in the break area, but the intake of coffee shall be limited because of the diuretic and circulatory effects. Workers observed shivering shall be taken to a suitable heated area (greater than 65 degrees fahrenheit) immediately. Workers shall wear multiple layers of clothing with the thinner clothing next to the body and the heavier clothing an the outside. Workers should be advised against overdressing that could lead to heat stress. Work shall be arranged to avoid long periods of sitting still or standing. Symptoms of cold stress may include shivering, numbness, low body temperature, drowsiness, and weakness. Treatment for cold stress include the following: Move victim into warm room as soon as possible Be alert for breathing difficulties; start rescue breathing techniques, if necessary. Remove wet or frozen clothing; immediately rewarm victim by wrapping in blankets. Give victim hot liquids to drink, only if conscious.