10 Tips for Keeping Warm on the Construction Site

The winter season is upon us, and we know construction jobs don't have to be put on ice once the mercury drops. Cold weather is dangerous when you don't take essential precautions to keep your body warm and dry, then the work sites to Finishing Company in London.

Know the Signs of Cold Stress

The cause of cold stress is when your body cannot keep itself warm and can result in frostbite or hypothermia. Hypothermia is when your body doesn't heat up as fast as it sheds it, and your body's core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The most common symptoms are shivering, low breathing, confusion, fatigue, coordination loss, and slurred speech— slow, low pulse.

If you notice signs of hypothermia, it's essential to bring their temperature back to normal. Take off all wet clothing and transfer the patient to a dry and warm area. Use blankets, other clothes, and heating pads to raise the temperature.

If they're conscious, they must be provided with warm fluids to drink. CPR should be administered immediately to a hypothermic person or one who isn't breathing or isn't breathing.

Frostbite happens when the body's frozen tissue is frequent in the extremities since these regions tend to be less vascular in colder temperatures. Changes in the affected tissue's color and loss of sensation in the affected area are common signs of frostbite.

Rewarm the frostbitten area by using warm water. Avoid rubbing areas to warm them up, and avoid using heating pads to heat the affected areas.

Remember, Safety (Meeting) First

Organize a safety session or toolbox discussion on days the forecast predicts frigid temperatures to highlight the dangers of hypothermia, cold strain, and frostbite. Make sure your construction employees are appropriately dressed to withstand the cold. Your workers need to keep track of each other regularly as hypothermia can lead to confusion, which can cause them not to be aware of the signs that they're suffering and could lead to other incidents.

Dress in Layers

The most common rule is to wear more than three layers while working in cold conditions on your construction job. The top layer of clothing must be water-wicking material to draw moisture away from your skin. The second layer must comprise breathable fabric that helps to protect your body, like fleece. The outermost layer must be able to shield your body from the elements. It implies a layer that is waterproof and windproof. You should ensure that the layers you choose fit properly and permit a full range of motion while not exposing you to frigid temperatures.

Cover Your Head

Although it's a myth that the majority of the heat in your body gets loss through the head, that's no reason not to keep your head warm. A well-knit helmet or ski mask is ideal for protecting your ears and keeping your face warm. Choose a quality fleece liner that protects the neck's back when you wear your hard cap. Make sure to include ChapStick and lip balm to prevent dry lips and breaking.

Protect the Extremities

The hands and feet are the focus here. They are more likely to become colder first because when our body temperature begins to fall, our brain can constrict the blood vessels in our extremities to improve blood flow to our core. A pair of suitable gloves, wool socks, and boots that are insulated will keep your fingers comfortable and warm.

Steel toe boots work as a "cold sink," so consider buying an assortment of composite toe boots to keep warm during winter. Hand warmers you can carry around your pockets are an excellent option to stay warm, while wearing gloves may not be the best alternative.

Numerous disposable hand warmers are reusable and disposable available. Zippo is a great hand warmer that is reusable and will find in almost every sporting goods store.

Stay Dry

If your clothes become wet and moisture remains on your skin, it can decrease your body temperature. It is why your base layer needs to draw off moisture from your body and the outer layer to be waterproof to prevent moisture from entering. It is also beneficial to keep gloves, socks and hats, hard hat Liners, and so on. in case you need to switch them out if they become damp.

Enclose Your Workspace

It isn't an option for all types of construction and every job site. Losing a worksite is as easy as tacking up plastic sheets over open spaces such as open doorways and window cutouts. It can also be as simple as modular panel systems and even tents. It stops the winds from entering and also prevents heat from the area.

Feel the (Artificial) Heat

Find a reliable electric heater if you're working in a cold or one of those enormous propane heaters that put out radiant heat for you to sit around while working outside. If the space is enclosed or providing heating isn't feasible, think about constructing an insulated trailer or temporary structure on site for workers to get a break from the cold and wind and get warm for a short period during the day.

Fuel Your Body With Something Warm

It would help if you kept a thermos of your favorite hot beverage in your fridge to help you warm up. Have a delicious hot lunch or bring an additional thermos filled with soup. The body burns up lots of energy working in cold weather, and it's essential to ensure that it's well-refueled. Take a look at having an extra food item during the daytime or double your portions during colder weather.

Keep Moving

The body produces heat through the movement of its body. It is essential that when working outdoors in cold weather that you are always moving. It isn't a problem for sure of the strenuous jobs related to construction work.

If your body's movements generate too much heat, it will result in sweating, which, as discussed before, can be dangerous. You should find a happy balance between wearing enough clothes and enough activity to remain dry and warm.