What risks for employees?

In the face of extreme cold, employees who do not benefit from sufficient protection risk:

• hypothermia (characterized by chills, fatigue, confusion, or loss of consciousness);
• musculoskeletal disorders (caused by lack of rest or repetitive movements);
• frostbite;
• decreased blood flow to the fingers;
• cramps.

What measures should be taken?

In order to prevent these various risks and the occurrence of accidents, the employer must take the following measures:

• adapting the organization of work in the presence of a risk of extreme temperature drop;
• transmit the adapted information the employees concerned;
• use suitable protective equipment : insulating gloves, trousers and jackets, overpants, socks, hats;
• plan work outdoors depending on weather conditions in presence (in the construction industry in particular);
• train staff in first aid actions ;
• limiting cold zone work and provide for breaks adapted;
• make available to employees localized heating devices (for posts particularly exposed to cold).

Which sectors are particularly exposed?

Some activities are more exposed to the extreme cold, in particular those sectors in which outside work is used:

• construction;
• retail trade;
• agri-food;
• the transportation industry—