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Exposure to cold reduces dexterity and strength it increases the potential for cumulative trauma disorders to occur.

Two common disorders associated with cold stress are Frostbite and Hypothermia.   Frostbite occurs as a result of frozen extracellular fluid in the skin cells. This usually affects local areas such as the extremities (fingers, toes, ears and nose).  If left untreated, frostbite may result in irreplaceable cell damage.

Hypothermia is a condition that results when the body's core temperature begins to drop from the normal temperature of 98.6 degrees F.   Symptoms range from shivering, falling blood pressure, irregular heartbeat and disorientation.  If untreated, hypothermia may result in death.  Death as a result of cold occurs at a body temperature of 77 degrees F (25 degrees C).

See the References for more detailed information.