Which of the following is NOT a PPE control for Cold Stress?

• A. Insulating
• B. Water barriers
• C. Gloves/mittens
• D. Refrigeration

Answer: (D)

PPE controls for cold stress are things the worker wears to reduce heat loss and protect the body from cold exposure. Insulating layers help retain body heat, gloves or mittens protect the hands from cold and prevent rapid heat loss, and a water barrier (a waterproof outer layer) prevents moisture from soaking in and pulling heat away from the body. Refrigeration, on the other hand, is an environmental or engineering approach that would alter the workspace conditions rather than something worn by the person. It’s not PPE, and in fact it would change the environment rather than directly protect the worker through protective gear. So the option that is not a PPE control is refrigeration.