Working outdoors in cold weather can be tough, but with the right approach you can stay safe and comfortable on the jobsite. The North American Safety team is sharing eight practical tips to help you fend off the chill and avoid cold-related injuries this winter.

1. Recognize Cold Stress Symptoms

Before heading out into cold conditions, it’s important to understand the signs of cold-related health issues. Knowing what to look for can help you act quickly if you or a coworker starts showing symptoms. Common cold stress problems include:

• Frostbite: Skin that looks white or gray-yellow, feels hard or waxy, and may blister in severe cases.
• Hypothermia: Signs include uncontrollable shivering, extreme fatigue, confusion, shallow breathing, and loss of coordination.
• Trench Foot: Redness, swelling, numbness, and blisters on feet exposed to cold, wet conditions.

2. Plan Work for Warmer Hours

Whenever possible, schedule physically demanding outdoor tasks for the warmest parts of the day — typically between late morning and mid-afternoon. This helps reduce how long you’re exposed to extreme cold. Keep an eye on the weather as conditions can change quickly.

3. Wear Appropriate Cold-Weather Gear

Regular street clothes aren’t enough when temperatures drop. Choose work clothes designed to resist moisture, wick sweat, and provide insulation. Good winter work gear helps keep you dry and prevents heat loss even when it’s wet or windy.

4. Protect Your Head, Hands & Feet

A surprising amount of body heat is lost through extremities, so make sure these areas are well covered:

• Gloves: Water-resistant and breathable options help keep hands warm while letting you work comfortably.
• Boots: Insulated, water-resistant boots with good traction keep feet dry and prevent slips.
• Headwear: Hats or balaclavas that cover your head, ears, and face help retain heat; liners can be added under hard hats.

5. Layer Your Clothing

Dress in layers so you can adjust based on activity and conditions:

• Base layer: Moisture-wicking fabric that keeps sweat off your skin.
• Mid layer: Insulating layer that traps warmth.
• Outer layer: Wind- and water-resistant shell that protects against snow, rain, and biting winds. Combining visibility features with insulation is ideal for safety and comfort.

6. Take Shelter When You Can

If your jobsite has a heated trailer or building, step inside periodically to warm up. If you’re in a remote area, a pop-up tent with sidewalls can offer a wind break and a place to warm up or dry off.

7. Fuel Your Body with Warm Food & Drinks

Eating warm, satisfying meals at lunch — like pasta or soups — helps maintain energy. Warm beverages can also help your body stay warm, but avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration. Adding electrolytes to warm water is another option to stay energized.

8. Use Skin Creams as a Protective Barrier

Cold and wind can dry out your skin and lead to irritation. Applying barrier creams or moisturizers helps protect exposed skin from chapping and chafing caused by cold conditions.

Below, you’ll find our Warming Products which – when paired with other warm weather gear such as insulated gloves, premium winter jackets, and insulated winter bibs – can help prevent cold weather injuries.