Six Tips for Working Safe in Cold Weather

The colder seasons can be a fantastic time for you. The holidays, indoor home improvement projects, winter sports, and so much more. It also adds more risks to exposure to the cold that can prove dangerous if you don’t prepare correctly. After all, having fun in the cold, and even working, doesn’t have to be the end of everything. Setting yourself up for comfort for your workday will make it easier to handle, not to mention all that crisp, fresh air.

Tips for Working in The Cold

1. Wearing the appropriate clothing can make or break your day. It could also mean a trip to the hospital with a case of frostbite or hypothermia. Wearing several thinner layers of clothing will help add to your comfort level. Women’s long johns should be your first layer. They fit snug and will lock in body heat while wicking away sweat and excess moisture. Your other layers should fit looser as they’re intended for added insulation. Keep an eye on what you wear over your thermals for women. Some may restrict movement or create a hazardous situation at work. Plus, your employer may have specific clothing requirements.

2. For colder days, protect your face, ears, hands and your feet. Invest in a pair of waterproof and insulated boots and some wool socks to keep those feet toasty. Wear a hat. If you find yourself wearing a hard hat, a wool cap that fits your head will fit under your helmet. Don’t expose skin any more than necessary. Add sunblock to your list as the sun still shines in the winter. And most of all, moisturize!

3. Working in harsh conditions is taxing. Take frequent, short breaks somewhere warm to allow your body to warm up. Not all companies will allow too many breaks, but a quick call to OSHA may help them get back into proper employee safety guidelines.

4. Stay hydrated with water or other warm beverages. Don’t forget to eat. Eating helps fuel the body to generate body heat. Protein bars aren’t just for bodybuilders.

5. Use a buddy system to help your coworkers stay safe. Exhaustion and fatigue can sap energy while working outside. Energy is needed to keep the body warm.

6. Education is essential, especially when it comes to the signs and symptoms of any cold-induced injury or illness. This will help you stay alert to help a coworker or even recognize those signs in yourself.

While working outside can be tough, wearing a base layer of thermals for women is an excellent place to start. Women’s long johns will help retain the warmth your body generates to keep you comfortable and help reduce the effects of any illnesses or injuries related to your job. Preparing for your workday isn’t complete without a check on the weather and putting on those comfortable thermals to prevent shivering.