By Hans Stacey 04/01/2017

Under: PPE and Workwear / Team Welfare

Winter PPE: How to Protect Workers in Cold Weather

As well as keeping team members safe, a warm and happy workforce is a more productive one. When body temperature drops we expend energy keeping warm, meaning less is available for concentration, communication and creativity. Research on office workers found that in lower temperatures employees were more distracted, made 44% more errors and were less than half as productive. If temperature has this much impact indoors, imagine the consequences of not keeping outdoor workers warm.

Here's our handy guide to winter PPE and keeping employees safe in cold weather:

Assess Requirements in Advance
Your winter PPE needs should be assessed well ahead of schedule to ensure you have adequate protection when bad weather hits.

Remember that a good fit is vital. Ill-fitting workwear can impair movement and hamper safety. Organise sizing requirements carefully when planning and offer a wider range of sizing options to employees. Use our man pack system when ordering for easy organisation of large orders and hassle free kit distribution.

During cold weather, extra risk assessments should be carried out to make sure workers' health and safety is not put at risk. If additional items are needed they can be with you before noon the following working day with our speedy delivery.

Choose High Quality
Safe and effective winter PPE insulates from the cold while letting perspiration evaporate. Take our soft shell jacket: it's windproof and water resistant but also breathable and comfortable to wear.

Good quality doesn't have to mean sky-high prices. Our Snowdon Fleece in our site essentials range starts at just £12.63 per piece and is also available in ladies fit.

Match Winter PPE to Conditions
When it comes to bad weather, take all factors into account. Will waterproofing be required? A waterproof set may do the job nicely, or colder conditions may require a quilt lined waterproof.

Remember that wine chill factor can make air temperature feel dramatically lower. Use wind resistant fabrics to protect against wind chill such as our wind-prood rip resistant bomber jacket.

When high visibility is required, try our best selling Courier, Freeway and Docker high vis waterproofs. They're quilt lined and available in multiple colours. Our high performance items feature extra breathability including the Micro-Climate GORTEX anorak and the Hagen Ultra range.

Use Layering
Using several layers will trap an insulating band of air in-between clothing. Workers can also add or take off layers as conditions change. Our 3-in-1 multi function waterproof jacket with thermal detachable fleece is ideal. It also comes with a concealed hood, storm cuffs and is available in ladies fit.

In extreme cold weather, an additional layer can be created with thermal under garments.

Remember Extremities
Feet, toes and fingers are particularly susceptible to the cold. Thermal gloves and thermal socks may be necessary to protect extremities. Appropriate protection of the hands is also important to maintain dexterity and prevent accidents.

Did you know that 40% of heat is lost through the head? A thermal hat can make all the difference.

In addition to winter PPE planning, ensure that employees receive training in recognising the symptoms of cold stress. Cold conditions may also require more regular breaks for employees. 

How are you planning for cold weather? Share your winter working strategy on our social media pages.