How to Protect Yourself & Prevent Frostbite at Work

If you plan on working outside at all this winter, you better bundle up. Cold temperatures not only affect your movement, but they can also cause significant health issues like frostbite. Be warned: the threat of frostbite is nothing to take lightly. It can sneak up on someone in minutes, and the symptoms are severe. Ignoring frostbite can result in lost limbs or even death. 

That's why you must be conscientious of frostbite any time you expect to be in the cold for an extended time. You should take measures to avoid it while also understanding what to do if you or someone you know gets it. 

What is frostbite, exactly?

Frostbite is an injury to body tissues caused by extreme cold. The epidermis, a moist layer beneath the exposed skin, freezes and prevents blood flow throughout the body. Depending on the severity, the skin can turn red, white, yellow, blue, or black. The toes, fingers, hands, and feet react first, as they are furthest from the body's core. Additionally, the nose, ears, and cheeks are susceptible.   

While the color of the affected area is one indicator of frostbite, itching and burning sensations can also occur. If you start to see or feel what we've described while working outside in the cold, you need to take preventative action quickly. 

How to prevent frostbite

Avoid frostbite by wearing several layers of clothes. Wear more and bring more than you think you need. You can always remove clothing, but you can't make them magically appear. 

Apparel made of fleece effectively keeps out the cold. Triple Crown Products offers a vast selection of the material: jackets, hoodies, pants, and gloves. Outdoor workers inspire our collection. That's why we built it for warmth, flexibility, and comfort. 

Freezing temperatures are just one frostbite threat you'll face. Heavy winds and precipitation both play a factor and can escalate frostbite symptoms. Thick, durable fleece protects against heavy winds, though you'll want to have waterproof clothing at the ready in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. Our Waterproof Shoreline Jacket by Carhartt consists of fully taped waterproof seams in addition to polyester mesh lining. It's a breathable option that serves as a proper overlay to your other layers.

 

For a warmer waterproof option, try on our Waterproof Mossy Oak Challenger Jacket by Port Authority. This item's heavyweight fleece lining works alongside a water-repellent nylon shell to protect against frostbite.

Remember, frostbite tends to attack the extremities first, so be sure to wear gloves, beanies, and multiple pairs of socks. You do not want any skin exposed under frostbite-threatening conditions. 

Frostbite treatment options

If you or a co-worker experience any indications of frostbite, it's essential to move to a warmer area. You always want to have quick access to a warm place just in case. The exposed skin will start to thaw, and the body will hopefully return to normal. Give yourself a while to warm up before running warm water over your skin or rubbing it for warmth. 

If you can't feel your fingers or toes, and you notice discoloration, seek immediate medical attention. Before entering any outdoor worksite, a first aid kit should be handy, and a plan should be in place to treat, or at least mitigate any on-the-job injuries.

As for professional frostbite treatment, a doctor will make an effort to rewarm the skin. He or she may have you take a 30-minute warm-water bath or soak in the whirlpool for hydrotherapy. The idea is to rewarm your skin, but it also gets rid of any dead tissue resulting from frostbite. Severe cases may involve surgery or amputation.

Ultimately, you should do everything you can to avoid frostbite. It can be tough to overcome, plus there's a chance you'll suffer permanent tissue damage. Take care of business from the outset by wearing high-quality winter worksite gear and apparel. Rely on Triple Crown Products to aid in preventing frostbite. We offer outstanding deals if you want to buy in bulk for your staff!