OSH Answers Fact Sheets

Is it important to wash your hands? Simply put, yes. Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. You can spread certain "germs" (a general term for pathogens like viruses and bacteria) casually by touching another person. You can also catch germs when you touch contaminated objects or surfaces and then you touch your face (mouth, eyes, and nose). "Good" hand washing techniques includes using an adequate amount of soap, rubbing the...

Why is snow shovelling an occupational hazard? As Canadians, we've been digging with that same snow shovel just as we do every year. But have we ever really given this chore much thought? Whether you're shovelling at work or home, there are some things you should consider. Timing and attitude Often the need for shovelling snow arises unexpectedly and interferes with what we had originally planned to do. Consequently, we face this unwanted chore unprepared and, more important in a hurry to get...

What are the health effects of exposure to cold? Exposure to cold working conditions may result in a variety of cold injuries and illnesses - with hypothermia and frostbite being the most serious. Other types of cold stress injuries include chilblain, immersion foot or trench foot, windburn, frostnip, and frostbite.  Generally, toes, fingers, ears, and nose are at greatest risk because these areas do not have major muscles to produce heat. The body preserves heat by keeping the internal...

What factors modify our response to cold? A cold environment challenges the worker in three ways: air temperature, air movement (wind speed), and humidity (wetness). In order to work safely, these challenges have to be counterbalanced by proper insulation (layered protective clothing), physical activity, and controlled exposure to cold (work/rest schedule). Air Temperature : Air temperature is measured by an ordinary thermometer in degrees Celsius (°C) or degrees Fahrenheit (°F). Wind Speed:...