When temperatures drop, the risk of cold stress rises — especially for recycling and installation crews

working around open docks, warehouses, or outdoor equipment.

At Black River Trading, we take safety seriously. Understanding how cold affects the body

can prevent dangerous — and preventable — injuries.

What Is Cold Stress?

Cold stress occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it.

If your core temperature drops too low, your body can’t maintain normal function.

Common cold stress injuries include:

• Trench Foot: From prolonged exposure to damp or wet conditions.

• Frostbite: Freezing of body tissue, usually in the nose, ears, fingers, or toes.

• Chilblains: Skin inflammation from repeated exposure to near-freezing temperatures.

• Hypothermia: When the body’s temperature drops below 95°F — a medical emergency.

When Does It Happen?

You don’t have to be working in subzero conditions.

Most cold stress incidents occur when ambient temperatures are between 30°F and 40°F,

especially with wind or moisture.

Risk increases if:

• You have poor circulation or are fatigued.

• Your clothing is wet.

• You’re exposed to wind or rain.

• You skip breaks or fail to stay hydrated.

Recognizing the Symptoms

• Shivering, numbness, or tingling

• Pale, waxy, or discolored skin

• Slurred speech or clumsiness

• Fatigue, confusion, or irritability

If a co-worker shows these signs, act immediately — move them to warmth, remove wet clothing, and call for medical help.

Prevention Starts with Awareness

• Dress in loose, layered clothing — moisture-wicking inner layers, insulation mid-layers, and a windproof outer shell.

• Avoid cotton, which traps moisture and increases heat loss.

• Keep hands, feet, and head covered, and ensure boots fit properly.

• Stay hydrated and eat high-energy foods like nuts or trail mix.

• Take frequent warm-up breaks in heated shelters or vehicles.

• Keep an eye on co-workers — the best protection is teamwork.

At Black River Trading

Our crews work hard in all conditions to install, service, and support recycling equipment across the country.

We remind every technician: Safety isn’t seasonal — it’s standard.

Before starting any job, complete your Pre-Job Safety Briefing and make sure your team is ready for the day’s conditions.

Stay safe, stay alert, and let’s keep recycling — responsibly.