Lanracorp’s #1 core value is safety above all. Once freezing temperatures hit, one of our top priorities is frostbite prevention. We’re here to educate our employees and clients on the symptoms, stages and most importantly, how to avert frostbite.
Symptoms of Frostbite
- Cold skin and a prickling feeling
- Numbness
- Red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin
- Hard or waxy-looking skin
- Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness
- Blistering after rewarming, in severe cases
Stages of Frostbite
- Frostnip: This stage is one that many of you may have experienced without being aware that it was a type of frostbite. As the mildest form of frostbite, frostnip is marked by pain and tingling that leads to complete numbness. While frostnip doesn’t permanently damage the affected area, it can quickly advance to a more dangerous stage if not treated immediately. Superficial frostbite: The next stage of frostbite emerges as reddened skin that turns white or pale. A person can identify that their injury has reached this stage once their skin begins to feel warm. After 12-36 hours of rewarming the skin, it is probable for a fluid-filled blister to arise.
- Deep frostbite: The most damaging stage of frostbite affects all layers of the skin, including skin tissue. Skin is likely to turn white or bluish-grey and become numb or painful. Joints and muscles may lose functionality. Once 24-48 hours after rewarming the skin has passed, large blisters will appear. Afterward, the area turns black and hard as the tissue dies.
Prevention
- Limit time outside. If the weather is very cold or windy, exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 2 minutes. Pay attention to forecasts and wind chills for when it’s cold, wet or windy.
- Dress appropriately. Investing in weather and windproof garments is one of the most important preventative measures. Layering these pieces actually can trap air between the clothing items which acts as insulation against the cold.
- Wear mittens over gloves. While mittens aren’t the most common choice, they offer better protection against cold temperatures. For optimal defense, wear a pair of gloves under a pair of mittens.
- Never wear wet clothing. If you plan to be outside for more than a few minutes, a change of clothes is completely necessary. Wet clothes, specifically gloves, hats and socks, are the leading cause of frostbite development.
- Don’t sit still. We know that when you’re cold, the last thing you want to do is move. However, circulating blood flow can increase your body temperature.
- Watch your diet. If you know that you will be outdoors for an extended period, you need to prep your body with proper nutrition. Eating balanced meals and staying hydrated is essential. Do not consume any alcohol as these beverages cause your body to lose heat faster.
- Be cautious of frostbite signs. While they certainly help, taking all of the above precautions doesn’t guarantee immunity against frostbite. You should still be mindful of the early signs and symptoms and seek help if you begin experiencing any.
- Be Your Brother’s Keeper: Have a buddy system and help monitor each other for signs of frostbite, clumsiness, or time out in the cold.
As a forward-thinking leader in the pipeline and utility maintenance industries, we don’t take this topic lightly. Year after year, we establish a culture of safety through various behavior-based safety programs. This is only possible because of our willingness to challenge our procedures and practices constantly. To learn more, visit our website: https://lanracorp.com/