Introduction

This International Standard is one of a series of thermal standards (see Clause 2 and the Bibliography) intended to be used in the assessment and management of work in the cold, i.e. in conditions that cause uncomfortable sensations of cool or cold. In light physical work, these conditions can occur at 10 °C or below.

A number of industries, types of commerce and occupations involve substantial cold exposure, outdoors or indoors, where individual workers can also be exposed to windy and/or wet conditions. Working in cold environments can involve several adverse effects on human performance and health: thermal discomfort, increased strain, decreased performance and cold-related diseases and injuries. Cold can also interfere with several other factors in the workplace, modifying or aggravating the risk of common hazards and increasing the risk of cold-associated injuries.

Due to the negative impact of cold on human health and performance, as well as on work productivity, quality and safety, a comprehensive strategy of risk assessment and management practices and methods is needed for work in cold environments.

Even though some of the standards referred to above describe specific methods (instruments and indices) to be used to assess the required insulation of clothing for different cold exposures (see ISO 11079), or physiological and psychological consequences related to different thermal exposures, an instruction of practical application for cold working environments is lacking.

This International Standard was created to specify methods and practices for assessing and managing occupational health and performance risks in cold work. The choice of when these are to be used is at the discretion of those responsible for occupational health and/or safety.

BS EN ISO 15743:2008

Ergonomics of the thermal environment. Cold workplaces. Risk assessment and management

Current

Published:

30 Nov 2008