Temperature Extreme Disorders or Conditions

DOE-EM-STD-5503-94

6.0. TEMPERATURE EXTREME DISORDERS OR CONDITIONS

6.1. BACKGROUND

The primary objective of this section on Temperature Extreme Disorders or Conditions is to

provide the guidance necessary for protection of contractors/employees from the occurrence of

temperature extreme related disorders or conditions. Other objectives are to:

Provide a description of the overall temperature extreme related disorders or conditions

program,

Integrate the program with other elements of the HASP, and

Provide guidance on the proper training levels necessary for operational workers and

supervisors.

The added burden of PPE required for hazardous waste operations in a temperature extreme

condition increases the potential for worker disorders or conditions that can result in injury or

illness. Disorders or conditions associated with work conducted in temperature extreme

conditions can be controlled through proper planning and effective monitoring of personnel.

Factors that could affect a worker's ability to function in extreme temperatures include, but are

not limited to:

Physical fitness,

Acclimatization,

Age,

Obesity,

Alcohol consumption,

Drug use,

Infections, and

Disease.

An effective temperature extreme program is a requirement and should be integrated with other

elements of the HASP. Pre-existing health conditions of workers, for example, can be identified

in the medical surveillance program (see Chapter 7). It is necessary to be aware of the potential

occurrence of heat or cold related disorders or conditions in confined space entry or emergency

response operations.

A temperature extreme disorders prevention program should be developed and included in the

site-specific HASP. The following elements should be addressed in the program:

Identification of potential hazards early in the planning phase of the development and

operation of required contingency plans,

Proper monitoring of worker physiology,

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