Different seasons have different requirements for PPE. With the dark and cold elements, ensuring your employees have the correct gear for the job is vital to avoid potential dangers.
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 state: ‘Employers must supply their workers with protective equipment that is fit for purpose and properly maintained, for free.’ Therefore, it is your responsibility to ensure your employees are protected by providing them with the correct equipment to stay warm, safe from the elements and from on-site hazards.
THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKING
Wet slippery surfaces, low light and increased hazards are a large contributor to slip and trip accidents during the winter months (HSE). Having the correct footwear is key; protective boots may need upgrading to include slip resistance and a self-cleaning tread. They need to be waterproof and contain thermal lining to ensure they’re insulated and keep your employee’s feet warm and dry!
KEEP THAT HEAD WARM
Did you know we lose up to 10% of our body heat from our heads? Keeping not only heads but necks and ears warm and protected is important for wellbeing as well as safety. Cold weather helmet liners and face warmers are a must for those working in cold, wet and windy conditions. It’s important that correct thermal layers are provided, especially when it comes to hard hats; they offer an increased level of protection.
DON'T WANT THOSE FINGERS DROPPING OFF
It’s a known fact our extremities, heads, fingers and toes are where we lose the majority of our body heat. As manual workers require the use of their hands regularly it’s important that they’re protected with the correct PPE. Depending what tasks your employees do, many will already use protective gloves for their role whether this be protection from mechanical or chemical hazards. But with the added wet and cold temperatures, they also need to have thermal protection and be water-resistant.
LAYERING UP
Ensuring your employees keep a solid core temperature is essential to protect their wellbeing and productivity during the winter months. Prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions will decrease the body’s heat stores leading to hypothermia and effecting brain functionality. Making sure employees are wearing enough layers to trap in the heat as well as being breathable and keeping dry will allow them to adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Think waterproof jackets, thermal base layers and breathable garments to make sure your employees are comfortable whatever the weather.
SEE AND BE SEEN
With the clocks changing we see less and less day light hours. Rain, wind and snow can all effect the visibility your employees are working in – especially if they’re working outside. High visibility clothing is essential to maximize safety including jackets, trousers and coveralls, with exposure to sunlight and on snowy days, eye protection should be worn to protect against UV rays, whatever the temperature.
Speak to one of our team today to find out how we can ensure your employees are kept warm and protected this winter: 01772 691000 | sales@slatersafety.co.uk