Properly protecting teams working in the cold can be a challenge for many employers, especially when temperatures and conditions change throughout a shift. But, as Catriona McNally, design and technical team product manager for Portwest, says, “Employers have a duty to their employees to provide suitable personal protective equipment to protect them from the hazards of extreme cold.”
Added Gunjita Joshi, safety specialist for Protective Industrial Products: “Cold stress is not mere discomfort – it’s a serious workplace hazard that can lead to frostbite, hypothermia and trench foot.
“Balancing warmth, flexibility and mobility remains a challenge.”
McNally encourages employers to educate workers to recognize the signs of cold stress, as well as properly prepare to work outdoors in the winter.
“Employers and workers need to understand the F2732 and EN342 cold protection standards and what the thermal insulation numbers mean so they can make the right choice of PPE,” she said. “Dressing in multiple layers of loose-fitting, lightweight and warm clothing is beneficial.”
Joshi echoed that statement. “The most effective strategy is a smart layering system: moisture-wicking base layers to keep skin dry; insulating mid-layers for heat retention; and durable outer shells for protection from wind, rain or snow.”
Equally important, Joshi added, are having warm-up areas and making sure workers take regular breaks.
Train workers on proper layering and when to modify their protection gear, Joshi recommended. “Educating teams on these practices enhances comfort, reduces risk and fosters a proactive safety culture during harsh winter conditions.”
Compiled with the assistance of the International Safety Equipment Association
Coming next month:
- Respiratory protection
- Training/education
