Working at a construction site in cold weather is challenging, but since the work still has to be done and project deadlines still have to be met, make it more bearable by taking precautions and coming prepared.
Here are nine tips for you to keep warm when working this winter.
STRETCH
Encourage your contractors to get their bodies moving and blood pumping before they get into the brunt of their work. In cold weather, muscles contract and have to work harder than they would in warmer temperatures. Your crew should take a quick walk, stretch, or do a few push-ups before starting to work to warm up their muscles.
TAKE BREAKS IN THE WARMTH
Finding a warm space to allow your crew to take breaks might not be easy, but it’s worth it to keep people safe and healthy. If possible, let your contractors take breaks in a heated trailer or building. If that’s not possible, use tents and add a radiant heater to the workspace.
TEACH THE SIGNS OF COLD STRESS
Make your crew aware of cold-related illnesses like frostbite, hypothermia, and trench foot, and teach them how to apply first aid treatment. Not only does this keep your crew safe, but it will make your job site more efficient, too.
Take steps to make your workspace as safe as possible by doing things like scheduling work for the warmest part of the day and having your contractors work in pairs so they can monitor each other for cold illnesses.
LAYER WARM CLOTHING
Layering clothing is one of the most effective ways to stay warmer when working in the cold. Just like your contractors insulate homes, they should insulate themselves. Teach any new contractors the basics of layering.
Start with a breathable base layer, add a middle layer made with wool, silk, or synthetic material, then add an outer layer to protect from the elements. Avoid cotton since it loses insulation value when wet. The outer layer should protect from rain and wind, yet allow for some ventilation to keep you comfortable.
COVER YOUR HEAD, FEET, AND HANDS
Areas of the body like your face and head are more sensitive to temperature changes. As you and your crew layer on clothing, make sure everyone is also protecting their face, head, hands, and feet. Wear a hat or hood to reduce how much body heat escapes from your head, wear insulated gloves, and wear insulated and waterproof boots or the boots necessary to stay safe.
STAY MOVING
When not taking a break, your contractors should keep moving. Moving increases circulation and helps you stay warmer. Even moving in place can help when working in cold weather.
EAT AND DRINK HOT FOODS AND BEVERAGES
Eating and drinking warm food and beverages can help warm up the whole body, so encourage your crew to bring hot drinks like coffee or tea and pack lunches like soup or chili in thermoses. Warm foods improve circulation.
BRING SPARE CLOTHES
Any midwesterner knows the importance of layering. You also know that nothing feels worse than being cold and wet. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it increases the chances of getting sick. In case of rain or snow, have your contractors keep a spare change of clothes — clothes from head to toe — with them.
SLOWLY ACCLIMATE YOUR CONTRACTORS
Frigid temperatures are a shock to the body. New contractors and people who are returning to work from a break should start with a small workload. Then, you can gradually increase their work while they build up a tolerance to cold weather.
No matter the weather and time of year, using high-quality building materials is important. From our lumber yard to our steel framing department, we have what you need at Miller’s Building Supply.
Once you receive our quality products and experience our great customer service, you’ll see why so many builders and remodelers come to Miller’s.
Check out our products online or visit us at 1819 E. Monroe St. in Goshen.