No matter what type of industry you work in, if you operate outdoors during the winter there are a few things you should be aware of in order to stay safe. Ensuring you and your employees avoid any and all injuries should always be a top priority, which is why we’re here to provide you with some useful tips.
An obvious but often overlooked step you should take is to ensure everyone is properly dressed for the weather. That’s doesn’t just mean wearing long sleeves and a jacket. The extremities need to be protected most of all, and things like fingers and ears typically show the first signs of frostbite. Wear hats and gloves that don’t interfere with your work but are warm enough to help you withstand falling temperatures.
While many people turn to coffee to warm themselves up, relying on caffeine can actually be a bad idea. This is because caffeine can increase your heart rate, cause blood vessels to constrict, and prevent blood from flowing as freely through the body. This can make it difficult to stay warm. Instead, choose decaf coffee or another hot drink that has minimal caffeine.
If you plan to be inside a vehicle for an extended period of time, you should take a few extra minutes to warm it up before you hop in side. There is nothing worse than getting in a truck and having to wait for the heat to kick in.
Depending on where you live, winter weather can make it almost impossible to get your job done right. By following these tips, you can ensure that you remain warm and safe throughout even the coldest days and nights.