Preventive Measures

Controlling exposures to hazards is the fundamental method of protecting workers. A hierarchy of controls is used as a means of determining how to implement feasible and effective controls.

The hierarchy of controls, in order of preference, includes the following:

• Elimination of the hazard
• Engineering controls
• Work practice controls
• PPE

When working in cold environments, elimination of the hazard is not always possible. Some jobs may be postponed and rescheduled for warmer temperatures. But some industries, such as emergency services, must continue despite the cold environment. In those cases, engineering and work practice controls, along with using appropriate personal protective equipment, can be used to reduce cold stress hazards.

To learn more about Cold Stress Safety visit our Cold Stress, Illness & Injury Safety Online Training web page.