LANDSCAPE ONTARIO – WORKPLACE SAFETY TAILGATE TALKS
26 © 2026, WSPS.CA
COLD STRESS AND WORKING
IN COLD WEATHER
Personal Protective Equipment
!
Studies have shown response to cold in women can
differ from men. While the core body temperature cools
more quickly in men, men are usually able to create as much
metabolic heat through exercise or shivering. In addition, the
rate of cooling of the extremities (feet, hands) is slower among
men. As a result, women are generally at a greater risk of
injuries related to cold stress than men (Liu et al., 2018).
!
Cold stress can reduce muscle strength; stiffen joints and affect
mental alertness and are reasons why incidents are more likely
to occur in very cold working conditions.
Prevention Points
Normal body temperature is 37°C and cold stress occurs when
the body's temperature drops below 35°C, leading to health
issues such as frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite occurs when
parts of the body freeze resulting in the destruction of skin and
underlying tissue, while hypothermia occurs when the body's core
temperature drops below the required temperature for normal
metabolism and body functions.
Generally, body heat is lost by breathing in cold air, sweating,
touching something cold, exposing skin and being hit by wind.
It is important to observe the combination of temperature, wind
chill and air moisture to determine how to dress, appropriate
activities and your maximum exposure to the elements.
Review the General Health & Safety Best Practices section
on page 11 before performing any task.
