12/15/20 - Zoro Staff
From bitter cold to high winds, those that work in the field face severe situations. During long days, workers need to have the right resources to protect themselves. A variety of gear is necessary to survive these surroundings. With these items, staying warm and dry in harsh environments is possible.
Outerwear for Every Condition
The most fundamental protective gear is outerwear. Staying warm and dry in harsh environments requires wearing durable coats and jackets.
What type of outerwear works best? It depends on the conditions. For extreme cold, your workers need a lined jacket. The lining helps keep the body insulated and warmer. Having a hood on the coat is a plus to safeguard the neck, face, and head.
For wet weather, outerwear needs to be waterproof. A rain jacket is a layer to repel the moisture. Being damp and in the cold can have a serious impact. Staying dry ensures that workers are safe and able to carry on with their activities.
Layer Up
In addition to outerwear, workers should use a layering technique for tops and bottoms. Start with a base layer that has sweat wicking. It will keep moisture away from the body. The thickness of the base layer depends on how low the temperature is.
The middle layer should act as an insulator. To create the ultimate insulator, use two layers here. One should be light, the other heavy. They’ll work together to trap heat escaping from the body. Instead of heat leaving, it holds it to your core.
The outer layer should be outerwear, as discussed above. The type depends on how cold it is and if there is moisture or wind present.
Double Up on Socks
Dry and warm feet are essential when working in harsh conditions. Layer your socks as well. The first layer should be a wicking material to repel moisture. The top sock should be an insulator. Workers should also keep extra socks on hand as a precaution.
Head and Neck Protection
When the head and neck stay warm, body temperature remains constant. Protecting these areas is the best way to avoid hypothermia. Wearing an insulated face mask will help. For those in hard-hat settings, you can use helmet liners to preserve the body’s heat.
Hands Stay Cozy and Nimble in Gloves
Field workers require finger dexterity. Cold, wet weather requires proper gloves. Thus, there must be a balance in the gloves you choose. The ideal cold weather gloves will be both insulating and allow for finger mobility. Gloves should also be waterproof and shield against frostbite.
A Different Approach to Work Boots
Most field workers wear steel-toe boots for protection. However, the steel creates an icebox for feet in the winter. This can become uncomfortable fast. If the worksite allows, making the switch to composite-toe boots could be a lifesaver. These boots still protect the toes, but they don’t freeze them.
No matter what type of boots you wear, make sure there is extra room. Cramped feet are cold feet. Toes need room for circulation, so keep this in mind when buying.
Always Hydrate
Hydration is just as important in the cold as it is in the heat. Hydrating keeps you warm. That’s because your body uses water to regulate your temperature. Keep fluids nearby. It’s hard to drink cold water in freezing conditions. Instead, room temperature water or warm drinks will do fine.
You may want to avoid caffeine. It acts as a vasoconstrictor, meaning it constricts your blood vessels. When this occurs, your heart must work harder to pump blood and remain warm.
Give Your Body Energy
In addition to staying hydrated, you need to snack throughout the day. Food provides your body fuel. It needs this extra fuel since you’re using a lot of energy to keep warm. Have snacks on hand while in the field. High-fat or -carb foods work best for a quick boost of energy.
Move Around, But Don’t Overexert
The more active you are, the warmer you’ll feel. Being stationary zaps your heat. Field workers rarely stay still long, so it’s a simple tip to follow. But don’t overdo it. If you overexert yourself, you’ll be sweating. Sweat can be dangerous in severe weather. Balance is key here.
These tips can keep you and your crew warmer and dryer during cold months. Inclement weather doesn’t keep you from being essential, so be prepared for the unexpected. Find a variety of items for staying warm and dry in harsh environments at Zoro.com.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.