State workplace safety officials are reminding employers that cold stress can pose serious risks indoors, particularly in workplaces with limited heating or exposure to outside air, such as drive-through stations.
The Alaska Occupational Safety and Health warned that inadequate indoor heat can increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite, even when work is performed inside buildings. Youth workers were identified as especially vulnerable to cold stress due to limited experience and prolonged exposure.
Employers are encouraged to ensure indoor workspaces are properly heated, provide warm clothing, offer training on cold stress, and schedule frequent breaks in heated areas. For drive-through operations, officials recommend using physical barriers, supplemental heaters, warm protective gear, and rotating staff to reduce exposure time.
Also Read: Cold Weather Alert Issued: Employers Urged to Protect Workers From Cold Stress
AKOSH said cold stress can lead to serious health hazards if not addressed. Additional guidance for employers is available through required Physical Agent Data Sheets (PADs) as part of an employer’s Hazard Communication Program on the Alaska Department of Labor website.
