Cold Weather PPE

Cold weather PPE protects outdoor workers from hypothermia, frostbite, and reduced dexterity in winter conditions.
Layering is the most effective approach: a base layer for moisture wicking, mid layer for insulation, outer layer for wind and rain.
Thermal gloves must maintain dexterity; bulky gloves impair grip and fine motor skills required for construction tasks.
Insulated safety boots with thermal linings and non-slip soles are essential for winter site work.
Balaclavas or thermal hat liners worn under hard hats prevent significant heat loss from the head.
Wind chill dramatically increases the rate of heat loss; windproof outer layers are critical on exposed sites.
Wet clothing accelerates heat loss; waterproof outer layers and access to drying facilities are essential.
Hi-vis requirements still apply in winter; outer layers must meet BS EN ISO 20471 Class 3 standard.
The PPE at Work Regulations 2022 require employers to provide suitable PPE for cold weather at no cost.
Cold hands lose grip strength and sensation, increasing the risk of dropped tools and hand injuries.

Prevent hypothermia	Core body temperature dropping below 35°C causes confusion, loss of coordination, and eventually cardiac arrest.
Maintain dexterity	Cold hands lose grip and sensation. Workers drop tools, miss handholds, and cannot operate equipment safely.
Legal duty	The PPE at Work Regulations 2022 require employers to assess cold weather risks and provide appropriate protective equipment.

Do

Don't

Wear layers: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid layer, windproof and waterproof outer.
Choose thermal gloves that maintain dexterity for the tasks you are doing.
Wear insulated safety boots with thermal linings and slip-resistant soles.
Use a balaclava or thermal liner under your hard hat to prevent head heat loss.
Ensure your outer layer is hi-vis Class 3 compliant over all other clothing.
Change out of wet clothing as soon as possible using site drying facilities.
Take regular warm-up breaks in heated welfare facilities during cold shifts.
Carry spare dry gloves and socks for when your first pair becomes wet.
Apply moisturiser to hands to prevent cracking and chapping from cold exposure.
Report if your cold weather PPE is damaged, worn, or inadequate for conditions.

DON'T work in cold conditions without adequate thermal layers and protection.
DON'T wear cotton as a base layer; it retains moisture and accelerates heat loss.
DON'T use bulky gloves that prevent you gripping tools and materials safely.
DON'T continue wearing wet clothing; change into dry layers as soon as possible.
DON'T sacrifice hi-vis compliance by wearing dark thermal layers as the outer garment.
DON'T remove your hard hat to wear a woolly hat; use a thermal liner underneath.
DON'T ignore shivering, numbness, or tingling; these are early hypothermia signs.
DON'T skip warm-up breaks to save time; cold workers make more mistakes.
DON'T dry wet gloves on hot exhausts or heaters; they degrade and lose protection.
DON'T assume you are warm enough because you are working hard; wind chill still affects you.

See also: Winter Working Safety | Welfare in Extreme Weather

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