22 Mar Dressing For Winter Work

Dressing for Winter Work

Working in cold weather can reduce comfort, dexterity, concentration, and physical performance. Cold temperatures, wind, and moisture can also increase the risk of cold stress, frostbite, and hypothermia. Wearing appropriate clothing is one of the most important ways to protect yourself while working outdoors or in other cold environments.

The key is to dress in layers that can be added or removed as conditions and your activity level change.

Dress in Layers

A layered clothing system provides insulation while allowing workers to regulate body temperature.

• Base layer: Wear a moisture-wicking material next to the skin to help move perspiration away from the body. Avoid relying on cotton when conditions are cold and wet because it can retain moisture and lose insulating effectiveness.
• Insulating layer: Wear fleece, wool, or another insulating material that retains body heat.
• Outer layer: Use a wind-resistant and, when necessary, water-resistant or waterproof outer layer to protect against wind, rain, and snow.
• Clothing should fit comfortably without restricting movement or interfering with required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Avoid overdressing. Excessive clothing can cause sweating, and wet clothing can significantly reduce insulation and accelerate body heat loss. If you begin to overheat, remove or open a layer before clothing becomes wet with perspiration.

Keep Clothing Dry

Moisture from rain, snow, standing water, or perspiration can rapidly reduce the insulating value of clothing.

• Replace wet clothing as soon as practical.
• Keep spare dry gloves, socks, and other clothing available when conditions warrant.
• Brush snow from clothing before entering heated areas where it can melt and soak the material.
• Use waterproof or water-resistant outerwear when working in wet conditions.

Protect the Head and Face

Wear appropriate head protection to reduce heat loss and protect exposed skin. Depending on conditions, this may include:

• An insulated hat or liner compatible with the required hard hat.
• Ear protection from the cold.
• A balaclava, face covering, or neck covering in severe conditions.

Never wear unauthorized liners, caps, or other items underneath a hard hat if they interfere with its fit or protective performance.

Protect Hands and Fingers

Cold temperatures can reduce sensation and manual dexterity, making it more difficult to safely operate tools and equipment.

• Wear insulated gloves appropriate for the temperature and task.
• Select gloves that provide adequate grip and dexterity.
• Use waterproof or water-resistant gloves when working in wet conditions.
• Keep replacement gloves available if the original pair becomes wet.
• Never sacrifice required hand protection simply to improve dexterity.

If numbness or loss of feeling develops, stop work and warm the affected area.

Protect Feet and Toes

Feet are particularly vulnerable during prolonged cold exposure.

• Wear insulated work boots appropriate for the conditions.
• Use moisture-wicking and insulating socks, such as wool or suitable synthetic materials.
• Wear waterproof footwear when working in snow, slush, or standing water.
• Replace wet socks promptly.
• Make sure boots are not excessively tight. Tight footwear can restrict circulation and increase cold injury risk.

Safety-toe, electrical-hazard, slip-resistant, or other protective footwear requirements still apply when required by the job.

Watch for Cold Stress

Employees should monitor themselves and coworkers for warning signs such as:

• Persistent or severe shivering.
• Numbness or loss of sensation.
• Unusual fatigue or loss of coordination.
• Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly.
• Slurred speech.
• Pale, waxy, or unusually firm skin.

Cold stress can impair judgment, so a worker experiencing hypothermia may not recognize the seriousness of the condition. Watch out for one another and report symptoms promptly.

Remember

Dress for the actual conditions and the work being performed, not simply the temperature shown on a thermometer. Wind, moisture, duration of exposure, and physical activity can significantly affect how quickly the body loses heat.

Take warm-up breaks as necessary, keep clothing dry, adjust layers before you begin sweating, and immediately report symptoms of cold stress.

Stay warm, stay dry, and stay alert.