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For professionals working in harsh environments, either outdoors or in chilled warehouses, staying safe, warm and mobile with the help of PPE for extreme cold is crucial.
Effective PPE and strategic layering can help workers maintain comfort when faced with such conditions, without compromising safety.
In this article, we explore the best practices for layering in cold weather environments, with insights to help you stay protected, meet industry standards, and perform optimally, even in harsh conditions.
Layering is a proven method for managing body temperature, which is especially important in extreme cold where exposure risks include hypothermia and frostbite. Proper layering doesn’t just keep workers warm; it also allows for flexibility, moisture management and airflow. The aim is to strike a balance between insulation and the ability to stay dry and comfortable.
When working in temperatures below freezing, each layer of clothing has a specific role in maintaining warmth, wicking away moisture, and offering necessary protection. You can build a safe and effective layering system by adhering to the following steps:
The base layer is your first line of defence. Its primary purpose is to keep moisture away from your skin, preventing sweat from cooling the body. Merino wool, synthetics like polyester, and blended fabrics are ideal because they wick moisture effectively and dry quickly.
When working in freezing environments, it’s best to avoid cotton as it retains moisture, which can quickly turn cold, leaving workers chilled and uncomfortable.
For optimal performance, on the other hand, consider thermal base layers that offer added insulation, especially in sub-zero conditions.
The mid-layer provides insulation by trapping body heat. Fleece jackets, insulated vests, or softshell jackets are popular options. Thicker insulation may be necessary in particularly cold environments, like freezer storage or outdoor work during winter months.
Materials that are lightweight while retaining heat well are recommended, such as down or synthetic fills. These materials not only keep workers warm but also help maintain mobility – an essential factor for workers handling equipment or needing their full range of motion.
For added convenience, layering multiple lighter pieces can be more effective than one heavy garment, allowing workers to adjust their attire as needed.
The outer layer shields against wind, water and other environmental hazards. Choose garments that are both water-resistant and windproof, as exposure to wet or windy conditions can significantly reduce warmth and safety.
High-visibility jackets are also essential for outdoor workers or those in low-visibility environments. Features like reinforced seams and insulated hoods add extra protection.
In environments with specific hazards, such as chemicals, consider outer layers that provide the necessary level of protection without compromising warmth or flexibility.
Beyond the three core layers, additional PPE helps safeguard extremities, which are often the most susceptible to cold. This includes:
Exposing your head and ears to freezing temperatures leads to loss of body heat and other potential issues, such as frostbite. Insulated helmets, balaclavas or beanies under hard hats provide essential warmth and protection to mitigate these risks.
Choose designs that fit snugly, without compromising hearing or vision.
Gloves are critical for individuals working in extreme cold. In such environments, mittens or layered glove systems are often recommended, as they allow fingers to share warmth.
Conversely, thermal gloves with a grippy palm and water-resistant outer layer are ideal for cold and wet environments.
Ensure gloves meet necessary safety standards for protection against convective and conductive cold.
Insulated, waterproof safety boots with moisture-wicking socks keep feet dry and warm. Thermal insoles are also beneficial, as they provide an added layer of insulation against icy surfaces.
Avoid overly tight footwear, which can reduce circulation and cause feet to become cold more quickly, not to mention constricted blood flow and painful corns and calluses.
Layering effectively is more than just donning multiple garments. To ensure the best performance, consider the following:
For those working in cold storage or freezer environments, specific certifications, such as EN 342 – the European standard for cold protection clothing – ensure garments offer adequate insulation and resistance to water penetration and air permeability.
Always verify that PPE meets relevant standards, as this guarantees both quality and safety. To do this effectively, it’s important to seek the services of a trusted safety workwear provider.
Dressing appropriately for extreme cold involves more than layering up; it requires a strategic approach to ensure warmth, protection and mobility. By choosing high-quality PPE and layering wisely, workers can face even the harshest conditions with confidence.
Our range of cold-weather workwear and PPE at Ark Safety is designed to meet the demands of extreme environments, providing both safety and comfort. We are on hand to provide you and your team with a carefully selected PPE ensemble, ensuring you’re not just dressing for the weather – you’re dressing for safety.
Contact us today for advice on winter PPE that not only keeps workers warm but also meets industry safety standards.
