Cold Weather Clothing

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Date Posted: 09/22/2016

Construction workers can be exposed to extreme weather during the winter months. Cold weather can negatively affect a person’s senses; seeing, smelling, feeling. Productivity is difficult when a worker is cold. Therefore, it is important to choose clothing appropriate for the cold weather conditions.

  • Always dress in layers with the outer layers loose and the inner layers tighter. This will trap body heat.

  • Do not over bundle.

  • Use the outer layer of clothing as a windbreaker. This will make the layers underneath more effective.

  • Minimize sweat. If the worker gets hot, remove a layer of clothing.

  • Avoid getting your clothing wet. Once wet, the clothing will not serve as a good protection from the cold.

  • Wear head protection. This will increase your overall warmth. Over half of the body’s heat loss comes from the head.

  • Be sure to properly protect your feet. Unless you are moving around, your feet will feel the effects of the cold first. Wool socks help, but 4-buckle overshoes can provide better protection.

  • Gloves are very important. Most often a thin pair of wool gloves under a pair of leather gloves will provide the best protection.


Presenter tips

  • Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic.

  • Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site.

  • Involve the workers by asking questions and input that drives discussion.

Questions for Discussion

  • What should you do if you begin to sweat in cold weather?

  • What body part loses the majority of the body’s heat?

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