How To Choose Workwear and PPE for Winter

Every company has the responsibility to provide a safe and hazard-free working environment. Employers are required to supply their workers with adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) in the event of occupational risks to health and safety.

All employers should be aware that the onset of winter imposes additional safety risks and, because of this, the requirements for PPE and workwear against the cold increase as well.

When it comes to choosing winter PPE and workwear, we're talking about keeping workers safe, warm and dry from head to toe. Let's break it down in that order:

Head Protection

Helmet liners help protect a workers' head and ears from the cold. They are specifically designed to fit snugly under a safety helmet, so there's no need to buy a whole new safety helmet just for winter.

Any headwear that is worn between the wearer's head and the helmet harness must be of a close fit to the head and be adjusted correctly.

Check out our range of helmets here

Eye Protection

Safety glasses may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to cold weather protection, but strong winds and low temperatures can cause wind chill and damage to the eyes and face.

The wind also increases the risk of flying particles being projected into the eyes.

In addition to this, ultraviolet rays can be high, even on cloudy days. Opting for polarised, foam-sealed and fog-resistant protective eyewear, like safety goggles can help protect the user against flying objects, glare, wind, rain, sleet and snow.

Discover our complete selection of eye protection.

Workwear and Body Protection

Layers are essential for protecting the body against the cold. Using three different layers is recommended for winter: base layer, middle layer and outer layer.

- Base layer

This is is the closest layer to the skin. It can include tops and trousers. They don't need to be thermal, but it's best to use synthetic wicking materials that absorb sweat. Cotton is not generally recommended as it absorbs and retains a lot of moisture.

- Middle layer

This is the insulating layer. It's usually polar fleece or wool. Choose a material that keeps the body warm, even in wet conditions.

- Outer layer

This is usually made of wind-resistant materials such as nylon. It's advisable to choose outer layers that are waterproof, lightweight and not bulky or loose-fitting, as this will help prevent accidents such as getting caught in machinery. This layer can be reflective or used with PPE such as hi-vis vests.

The most appropriate workwear for winter and cold working conditions include:

- Fleece jumpers, hoodies and sweatshirts

- Coats and jackets

- Body warmers and vests

- Thermal clothing

- Waterproof clothing

Choosing workwear with zips is a great option because it allows the wearer to add or remove a layer easily throughout the day as temperatures vary.

Hand Protection

Safety gloves should be worn at all times, especially in cold and freezing conditions.

Not only do they need to be soft, comfortable and warm on the inside, but they must also provide excellent protection and grip on the outside.

Protective gloves should be task-specific, meaning they may need to be cut-resistant , impact resistant or offer protection against chemicals .

Browse our range of hand protection here

Feet Protection and Safety Footwear

There is nothing worse than having cold, wet feet in the winter. Considering that feet help regulate body temperature, it goes without saying that without proper safety footwear, the risk of cold-related illnesses or accidents increases.

Insulating footwear is crucial to help keep the feet warm and prevent the loss of body heat.

In order to protect workers, there are three standards that define the three types of footwear for professional use:

• Safety footwear (EN ISO 20345) - Equipped with a toe cap to protect against impacts with an energy level of 200 J. This is the most common.• Safety footwear (EN ISO 20345) - Equipped with a toe cap to protect against impacts with an energy level of 200 J. This is the most common.

• Protective footwear (EN ISO 20346) - Equipped with a toe cap to protect against impacts with an energy level of 100 J. Not widely used.

• Occupational footwear (EN ISO 20347) - Not equipped with toe cap and does not provide impact protection.

Winter footwear should not only provide protection from the cold and wet, it should also be task-specific.

The choice between safety, protective or occupational footwear will depend on the potential hazards of the job.

Some workplace health and safety risks to the feet include:

• Slips, trips and falls.

• Electrical hazards.

• Explosions and flammable materials.

• Rotating blades.

• Molten metals.

• Punctures and falling objects.

• Moisture, liquids and chemicals.

Regardless of the purpose of the footwear, it's important not to overlook foot comfort and support, especially for workers who walk or stand for prolonged periods of time.

Work shoes should have an ergonomic arch, gel padding and shock-absorbing properties to provide comfort and prevent possible joint strain.

Check out our comprehensive selection of safety footwear here.

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