JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Construction sites are full of dangers. One of these dangers is winter weather conditions. Exposure to cold weather and slippery conditions has the potential to cause injuries that result in serious injury, permanent disability, or even death.

After last month’s bitter cold temperatures, February may seem practically balmy. But, it’s important to remember that cold-related injuries can occur anytime the temperature is below 40 degrees. It is important that all Allentown construction workers know the signs and symptoms of the most common cold-induced illnesses and injuries.

Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when skin and other tissue freezes. As the body gets cold, it automatically tries to warm itself by decreasing circulation to the hands and feet. This keeps more blood near the vital organs, but it puts the fingers, hands, toes, feet, ears and nose at risk. Frostbite can permanently damage body tissues, and severe cases of frostbite can result in amputation.

Signs of frostbite

• Blue or white waxy-looking skin
• Stinging, aching or numbness
• Hard skin

First Aid for Frostbite

Get the victim to a warm location. Call 911. Remove any wet clothing, and apply blankets or heavy clothing to warm the body. Gradually warm the skin (hands, feet) by immersing in warm—not hot—water.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can warm itself, and the body’s core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Warning Signs of Hypothermia

• Uncontrolled shivering
• Cool, bluish skin
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Slurred speech

As hypothermia progresses, the condition will affect coordination, reaction time and mental alertness. The victim may become confused or irrational.

First Aid for Hypothermia

Any worker with hypothermia needs medical attention. Call 911. Move the victim to a warm location, remove all wet clothing, and wrap the worker in warm dry blanket.

Trench Foot

Trench foot occurs when feet are exposed to cold and wet conditions for an extended period of time. Wet feet lose heat 25 times faster than dry feet. As the feet cool, the body constricts blood vessels to prevent heat loss. The skin tissue becomes deprived of oxygen and begins to die. Like frostbite, trench foot can cause serious and permanent tissue damage. Unlike frostbite, trench foot can occur at temperatures as high as 60 degrees.

Symptoms of trench foot

• Red skin
• Tingling pain
• Numbness
• Blisters or ulcers
• Bleeding or bruising under the skin
• Leg cramping
• Swelling in the feet or legs
• Gangrene

First Aid for Trench Foot

If a co-worker shows signs of trench foot, call 911. Don’t let the victim put weight on his feet. Remove shoes and dry the feet. Cover the feet with a warm blanket or dry socks.

Need Help? Contact Us!

Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo, P.C., represents Pennsylvania construction workers who are injured on the job. To learn about workers’ compensation for cold-induced injuries, contact our office at 888-807-WORK (9675).