Whether it’s blistering heat, freezing cold and rain or heavy snow, having the right gear when working in extreme weather conditions is essential. Wet surfaces, spills or weather-related hazards like snow, ice or rain can cause dangerous slips or falls. In 2020, workplace slips, trips and falls ranked among the top three causes of work-related injuries resulting in lost time and reduced productivity, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Get to know the different types of specialized PPE designed to keep workers comfortable and safe in challenging environments.

Understanding the Risk: Weather-Related Job Hazards 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states employers must provide workers with suitable PPE at no cost, including clothing, gloves and other equipment designed to protect against job-related hazards. Employers are responsible for assessing workplace conditions and selecting appropriate PPE to help prevent illnesses and injuries. Among the main weather-related hazards for employers to consider are:

• Extreme hot or cold temperatures
• Lightning
• Slippery surfaces

Proper PPE for Cold Weather

When choosing protective clothing, it’s important to consider the dangers it protects against and how comfortable it is to wear. If workers feel uncomfortable, they may be tempted to ignore safety guidelines, loosening or removing protective gear if they get too hot or adding extra layers when cold, which can reduce the effectiveness of safety equipment.

Working in freezing temperatures requires PPE that offers insulation to help protect against cold-related injuries like hypothermia and frostbite, including:

Insulated Clothing  

High-quality insulated clothing is crucial in freezing temperatures to help keep workers safe and comfortable. Using moisture-wicking base layers or layering with hoodies and sweatshirts is recommended in extremely cold conditions. Electronically heated jackets, coats, vests, overalls, and pants are a convenient way to keep workers warm for extended periods outdoors. Using waterproof and windproof outer layers and high-visibility outerwear also help to keep workers dry and ensure they are visible in low-light conditions like wet or heavy snow.  

Thermal Gloves and Warmers  

Hands and feet are susceptible to cold-related injuries. Thermal gloves with insulated linings and water-resistant exteriors help protect hands from freezing temperatures while allowing agility for performing common tasks. Disposable chemical warmers can also be used inside gloves and footwear to help keep hands and feet comfortable and warm.

Insulated Boots

Waterproof, insulated boots and overboots provide additional traction and help keep workers dry and comfortable when exposed to cold, wet or below-freezing temperatures. Thermal socks and boot liners can be used with existing footwear for an additional layer of warmth in cold environments.

Head and Face Protection

Wearing thermal hats and balaclavas helps prevent heat loss through the head and protects the face from icy winds and snow, reducing the risk of frostbite. In heavy snow, proper eyewear and snow goggles are important to wear for greater visibility and to help reduce the risk of accidents.  

Proper PPE for Working in Heat

Whether you’re combating the sweltering heat or regularly working outdoors or in warm environments, it’s important to consider PPE with cooling features and breathability. High-quality, polarized safety glasses can help protect the eyes and ensure proper visibility. Keeping a hydration pack or water cooler easily accessible is also important to help prevent heat-related illnesses.

Consider the following gear to stay cool while working in the heat:

Hats, Headwear and Cooling Towels

Wide-brimmed hats or caps with neck flaps provide shade and help protect the face and neck from the sun. Sun shades, visor attachments and hard hat cooling products are especially useful while doing physically demanding work outside. Cooling towels, headbands and hats made from absorbent and quick-drying materials can provide instant cooling when working in warm weather.

Breathable Clothing

Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential when working in the heat. Loose-fitting shirts and pants made with moisture-wicking materials are great for staying dry and cool while working outdoors or in warm environments for extended periods.  

Cooling Vests

Cooling vests are designed with special materials that absorb and hold water. They work by using evaporation to help cool the body to provide relief in scorching temperatures and protection against heat-related illnesses like exhaustion or heatstroke.

PPE When Working in the Rain

Working in the rain presents several hazards, from reduced visibility to the risk of hypothermia. From slip-resistant boots to high-visibility vests, consider the following waterproof gear when working in the rain:

Waterproof Clothing and Umbrellas

Wearing waterproof jackets, rain suits, pants and overalls, or ponchos can help keep workers dry during rainy conditions and also help reduce the risk of hypothermia. In addition to waterproof clothing, umbrellas can help keep workers dry and comfortable.

Anti-Slip Footwear

Boots with slip-resistant soles are critical when working in wet conditions. Rubber boots and waders can keep feet dry in many different working environments and help prevent slips, trips and falls by providing additional stability on slippery surfaces. Traction devices and slip-resistant footwear can help prevent accidents on wet and icy surfaces.

Waterproof Gloves

Waterproof gloves help keep hands warm, dry and protected in wet environments, helping prevent accidents during tasks that require a strong grip, like using tools or working with heavy machinery and equipment.  

Regardless of the weather, safety and protection ultimately involve more than procuring the right supplies. Workers also need to be educated about the proper use of PPE. Regular training sessions, updated safety protocols and fit testing are critical to maximizing PPE effectiveness to help minimize workplace accidents and injuries. By providing the proper PPE and training, employers can help significantly reduce risks, ensuring workers remain safe, comfortable and productive in all types of challenging weather conditions.