What temperature indicates the start of severe cold-related health risks?

The point at which severe cold-related health risks begin is critical for ensuring safety in cold environments. When temperatures drop below -1 C or 30.2 F, the risk of cold-related health issues significantly increases. This is due to the body’s struggle to maintain its core temperature, which can lead to conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite.

At this range, the skin may freeze upon exposure, and the body's ability to lose heat becomes a serious concern, particularly for individuals who are not adequately dressed, are wet, or are exposed to wind. Understanding this threshold is crucial for industrial hygienists and safety professionals in planning and implementing protective measures for workers in cold environments, such as the provision of appropriate clothing, scheduled breaks in warm areas, and education about the signs of cold stress.

Other temperature levels provided do not indicate as immediate a risk for severe cold-related health effects, making the specified temperature the most appropriate benchmark for recognizing hazardous conditions.