Engineering Controls

Well-designed engineering controls can be highly effective in protecting workers in cold environments. The following are some engineering controls that can be used to prevent cold stress:

• Shield work areas from drafts or wind to reduce the wind chill.
• Provide heated warming shelters for workers who are exposed to prolonged temperatures below freezing. Warming shelters may include heated tents, cabins, or rest rooms.
• Use radiant heaters, warm air jets, and contact warm plates to warm workers.
• Cover metal equipment handles with thermal insulating material when temperatures drop below freezing.
• Use machines and tools that are designed so that they can be operated without having to remove gloves or mittens.
• In refrigerated rooms, use properly designed air distribution systems, which minimize air speeds.

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