When temperatures drop and the desperately cold chill of winter sets in, those working outdoors are faced with a unique and uncomfortable series of challenges.
Unpredictable weather conditions can make the wearing of ordinary workwear virtually impossible, since it doesn’t offer the right levels of protection against the cold. Fortunately, combating this issue is simple with such items as an insulated workwear jacket or pants, designed to keep the wearer warm and comfortable, and able to carry out their work.
Here are a few things to think about when investing in cold weather workwear:
Layering systems
Layering is a crucial aspect of retaining warmth during cold weather, and a good layering system traps heat and keeps it there using the following method:
- Base layer
Sitting against the skin directly, the base layer manages moisture levels, keeping sweat away from the body using moisture-wicking synthetics or merino wool.
- Insulating layer
In trapping heat and keeping it there, this layer provides warmth, and popular choices of insulating layers include jackets made of down, or vests filled with synthetic material.
- Outer layer, or shell
Acting as a kind of barrier against weather conditions like snow, rain and wind, it’s essential that this layer be both breathable and water-resistant. You’ll often find that such items as insulated jackets for work, come with an outer shell that’s exceptionally durable, offering protection against the elements, while at the same time, letting excess heat escape, as well as moisture.
Water resistance and breathability
When the weather outside is really cold, it’s vital that workers can stay dry as well as warm. Preventing moisture from being able to penetrate the fabric, water-resistant materials are often treated with a water repellent that’s highly durable (DWR), something that’s of extreme importance when wet or snowy conditions are being worked in.
That said, breathability is just as important, especially in terms of stopping sweat and moisture from building up inside the items of clothing.
Good quality insulated workwear should offer both breathability and water resistance, keeping the wearer dry from sources externally and internally.
Now let’s look at how cold weather workwear is worn in various industries:
- Construction
Workers on construction sites may be exposed to hazards and cold temperatures in equal measure, making the wearing of durable outer shells, imperative. For the warmth and protection they need, insulated high-visibility jackets are ideal for construction workers.
- Outdoor maintenance
Anyone working outdoors to maintain the landscape, must be kept warm, without compromising on flexibility. Commonly warm by gardeners and tree surgeons etc, are insulated jackets with elbows and knees that are articulated, so that bending and stretching are still possible.
- Utility workers
Often forced to work in the most challenging of conditions, such as dealing with flash fires and emergency repairs, utility workers must wear clothing that’s flame-resistant, as well as being insulated. Layers must be water-resistant, insulated, and ideally, workpants should have knee panels that have been reinforced, and pants and jackets should have multiple pockets for essential tools.
Caring for insulated workwear
From insulated high-visibility jackets, to insulated leather work gloves, proper maintenance is crucial for their efficacy and longevity. This is usually easy to achieve by following the manufacturers care guidelines, and carrying out regular inspections to check for signs of wear and tear, and damage.
Providing outdoor workers with frontline defense against the perils of winter, choosing the right insulated workwear can enhance their productivity while also keeping them safe and comfortable; a straightforward win-win for everyone involved.
