Staying Warm at Construction Jobsites
Does your job require you to work outdoors? If you want unique tips to stay warm, keep reading to discover recommendations that you haven't heard before.
1. Layering Clothes for Cold Weather
Wear a base thermal layer, a mid layer, and an outer layer.
Base layer clothing: Should be thermal fabric or a wicking fabric to remove any moisture that forms on your skin. Items recommended include synthetic or polypropylene long johns. Avoid cotton and goose down fabrics.
Mid layer clothing: A fleece or wool sweater acts as insulation and is perfect to trap in body heat.
Outer layer clothing: Ideally windproof and/or waterproof.
2. Layering Socks, Gloves and Hats
Everyone knows to wear a toque and gloves to keep warm, but do you know the best tips and tricks to maximize your warmth when working outside?
A toque rated for colder temperatures is recommended, but another consideration is a balaclava that can be worn under your toque when a hard hat is required.
Wearing gloves under a pair of mitts ensures that your hands stay toasty and you’re not losing all your warmth when you take them off to do something hands on.
Wear moisture wicking socks underneath a wool layer. If it’s snowing, gaiters are great to keep the snow from making it’s way down your boots (or up your legs) while trapping the warm air in.
3. Keep Yourself Hydrated and Nourished
Foods high in carbohydrates and fat content require your body to burn them off and produce heat to keep you warm.
It’s best to eat small snacks throughout the day instead of a few heavy meals to give your body consistent fuel.
Hydration is also very important, so avoid caffeine and alcohol as much as possible, and drink lots of water!
4. Keep Moving, But Take a Break
Your body generates heat through movement, so it shouldn’t be tough to stay warm if you’re working on a jobsite all day, right?
But remember to get out of the cold for short breaks from time to time. Whether it’s during your lunch run, or a small electric heater in the site office, it’ll be more bearable to go back outside, if you have a moment to warm up.
5. Hand and Foot Warmers
We’ve all know disposable hand warmers work great, until your hands and feet are freezing again.
Instead, try heated insoles or a fuel powered reusable hand warmer. That way, you can control when you feel the warmth, and if you want it all day, you get it.