The operational needs of the Public Service require some employees to work outdoors in conditions of extreme cold. The purpose of this advisory notice is to give information regarding the effects of cold, advice on how to prevent these effects from occurring, and how to deal with the effects before medical help can be reached. Frostbite - This is the destruction of body tissues, usually in the face, hands or feet, by freezing. Hypothermia - This is an actual lowering of body temperature due to the prolonged exposure to cold.
Heat is lost from the body faster than it can be generated by metabolic activity.
Clothing - The purpose of cold weather clothing is to maintain layers of warm air around the body. Clothing should be worn in a number of layers, so that one or more items of clothing can be discarded when doing heavy work. The outer layer should be windproof. Gloves should also be in layers, again with a windproof outer layer. Mitts are warmest, but a pair of gloves should be carried for more exacting work.