As the weather begins to cool down, it’s crucial to adjust our work practices and gear to ensure the safety, comfort, and productivity of everyone on the job site. Construction jobs come with various challenges, and colder weather introduces its own unique set. Preparing for these changes not only helps us maintain efficiency but also protects our teams from the risks associated with working in low temperatures. In this blog post, we’ll share ten practical tips at Kilgore Companies that can help us navigate the cooler months ahead.
1. Layer Up for Warmth and Mobility
The key to staying warm in cooler weather is layering. “Layering lets you adjust your body’s thermostat by putting on and removing items to maintain an even comfort level as conditions and your exertion levels change,” says REI. Dressing in layers helps trap body heat while allowing us to shed or add clothing as temperatures fluctuate. We should start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off our skin, followed by an insulating layer like fleece, and finish with a waterproof outer layer to protect against wind and precipitation. These layers will help us stay comfortable throughout the day without compromising our ability to move.
2. Invest in Quality Work Gloves
Cold hands can be one of the biggest challenges during construction jobs in cooler weather. We recommend investing in insulated work gloves that provide warmth while allowing for dexterity. It’s important to choose gloves that can keep our hands warm without being too bulky, so we can still handle tools and materials safely. For added protection, consider gloves with grip enhancement features, as surfaces can become slippery in colder conditions.
3. Adjust Work Hours to Take Advantage of Daylight
With shorter days and fewer daylight hours, it’s smart to adjust our schedules to maximize productivity during daylight for construction jobs. Starting the workday earlier or making other adjustments ensures that we can complete tasks in optimal lighting conditions, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall efficiency. This can be especially important when temperatures are at their lowest in the early morning or late evening.
4. Stay Hydrated
While staying hydrated is a well-known necessity in hot weather, it’s just as important during cooler months. Colder weather often masks our body’s need for water, and dehydration can set in without us realizing it. We need to remind our teams to keep drinking water regularly throughout the day, even when they don’t feel thirsty. It might be helpful to provide warm beverages like herbal teas or soups, which can both hydrate and warm us up from the inside. “About two-thirds of your body weight is water. All your cells need water to work. Water is also the base for all your different body fluids, including saliva, blood, urine, sweat, and joint fluid. No living thing can survive without water,” says NIH.
5. Monitor Weather Conditions Regularly
Weather conditions can change rapidly during the colder months, especially in areas prone to sudden shifts in temperature or precipitation. We should regularly monitor the forecast and be prepared for any unexpected weather changes. This can include having backup gear available, such as heavier jackets, rainproof clothing, or heated vests, to respond to any sudden drops in temperature or an unexpected storm.
6. Keep Tools and Equipment in Good Condition
Cold weather can affect our tools and equipment, potentially causing breakdowns or malfunctions. Metal tools can become brittle in freezing temperatures, and machinery may need extra care to prevent damage or malfunction. Before the cold weather hits, we should make sure all equipment is properly maintained and winterized. For example, using the right type of fuel or lubricants suited for cold weather can prevent delays and equipment failure on-site.
7. Be Mindful of Ice and Slippery Surfaces
As temperatures drop, the risk of slipping and falling increases, especially on metal or concrete surfaces. We need to ensure that pathways, scaffolding, and equipment are clear of ice or snow before starting work each day. Spreading sand, salt, or de-icer on walking surfaces can help improve traction and prevent accidents. Additionally, we should remind everyone to walk cautiously and wear boots with good traction to navigate slippery areas safely.
8. Encourage Warm-Up Breaks
Taking regular breaks to warm up can prevent cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia or frostbite. We should create a designated warm-up area with a portable heater or a heated trailer where workers can take breaks and warm up throughout the day. Encouraging these breaks not only helps keep everyone safe, but also boosts morale, which is important when facing the physical challenges of working in cold weather.
9. Inspect Safety Gear for Cold Weather Readiness
Safety gear, including helmets, harnesses, and other protective equipment, must be suitable for cold weather use. For example, some safety gear might become stiff or brittle in freezing temperatures, which could compromise its effectiveness. We need to inspect all gear regularly and replace anything that might be compromised in colder weather. Cold weather can also affect the fit of helmets or harnesses when worn over bulkier clothing, so ensuring proper adjustments is important for maintaining safety standards.
10. Educate Teams on Cold-Related Health Risks
Finally, it’s important to educate everyone on the potential health risks associated with working in cold weather. Conditions like hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot are real threats when working outside in freezing temperatures. We should train our teams to recognize the early symptoms of these conditions and encourage them to seek shelter or medical attention if necessary. Providing information on how to dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and recognize signs of cold-related health issues can help prevent these risks from escalating.
Preparing for Cooler Weather
As we approach cooler weather, it’s clear that preparation and vigilance are key to ensuring safety and productivity on construction jobs. By following these tips and adjusting to the changing conditions, we can continue to work efficiently and safely. Dressing appropriately, staying hydrated, monitoring conditions, and taking regular breaks are just a few of the ways we can protect ourselves and our teams from the challenges that cooler temperatures bring.
When the weather shifts, construction jobs may feel more demanding, but by taking the necessary precautions, we can stay ahead of potential hazards. Making small adjustments to our daily routines and equipment ensures that we remain effective and secure, no matter what the weather throws at us. To learn more, head to our website, Kilgore Companies.