Keeping Employees Safe During Winter

5th January 2017

During the Winter months, many construction sites remain active, meaning that workers need to work outside in less forgiving conditions. So, it’s important for employers to bear in mind the various hazards that come with working in the cold. In the following blog post, we explain the various risks and how to combat them with proper safety equipment, so that you can keep your workforce safe during the winter.

What are the risks?

When working outside in the cold for prolonged periods of time, workers can be at risk of serious health issues if they’re not properly protected. There are many common illnesses and injuries that employers need to be aware of and can recognise the symptoms for, should they occur.

Frostbite is localised damage to the skin and deeper tissues, which occurs when exposed to freezing temperatures. It’s most common in the extremities – fingers, toes, hands and feet. When caught early, frostbite won’t cause long-term damage but severe cases can lead to amputation.

Hypothermia occurs when the body expels more heat than it absorbs. Mild symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, but more serious signs will be confusion and disorientation, a slower pulse and heavier breathing.

Trench foot occurs when the feet are exposed to damp and cold conditions for a prolonged period.  The body shuts down circulation to the feet to avoid heat loss, and the skin and tissues begin to die without blood flow.

How can the right clothing prevent illness and injury?

Risk of the aforementioned illnesses and injuries can be greatly reduced by ensuring that employees are equipped with the right protection – that means, high-quality clothing that provides warmth and dryness.

Warmth is best achieved through layering, which traps body heat; as a general rule, three lighter layers are better than one heavy later. Here’s what we recommend:

1. The base layer should be something light and breathable, like our Coolmax Polo Shirt – it’s made from moisture wicking, fast drying fabric that provides comfort in an active environment.
2. The second layer should be a warm jumper or sweatshirt. We suggest something like our Premium Full Zip Fleece, which is warm but not too bulky. And don’t forget the extremities – choose woollen socks for maximum warmth.
3. The outer layer should be a heavy winter coat, like the Airtech Winter Jacket. Make sure your outer layer is suitable for the weather conditions your team will be working in.

As well as warmth, another important factor to consider is protection against damp conditions; this is especially important when buying footwear, given the risks of trench foot mentioned earlier. We have a range of appropriate footwear, from water resistant safety boots to wellingtons and waders.

And finally, bear in mind that in the winter months it gets darker quicker, so proper visibility gear is crucial for employee safety. A high-quality Hi-Vis jacket will help to prevent accidents.

Any additional tips?

Even with the best protective clothing, prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions still comes with its risks. Workers will need more breaks to ensure they are alert and hydrated. Warm, sweetened liquids – like good ol’ fashioned Builder’s Tea – are best. You should also encourage employees to get more sleep, so keep work hours strict and avoid keeping construction sites active late at night if possible.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to keep your site running through the winter months, whilst knowing that your employees are safe and protected against the cold. Feel free to get in touch with our team on 01293 744 710 if you have any questions about keeping your employees safe during the Winter.