The idea of layering is to keep the heat you are producing in rather than warming you up. It’s a very effective strategy of combating extreme cold environments as opposed to wearing one heavy garment. With layering, you can remove or add a layer or two when it gets too warm or cold. The last thing you want is to overheat and sweat. This can cause your body to lose heat very fast, increasing the risk of cold injury. For an inner layer, opt for lightweight polyester. Synthetics can wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you much drier and warmer.
How Overdressing in the Cold Can Hurt Your Productivity
You know that being cold can adversely affect your work – everything from reducing performance and impairing ability to operate machinery to increased safety concerns and loss of concentration. However, too many layers or insulated clothing that is too thick can be counterproductive as well. You can make employees overheat or restrict their movements and ability to work.
The Risks of Overheating
If you are too warm, concentration will be lost as your focus splits between discomfort and the job at hand. Choose the right level of insulation and remember if you aren’t moving a lot, you aren’t generating body heat. This means you will need apparel that’s rated for temperatures below the actual air temperature. For example, if you are driving machinery and not generating body heat in 32 degrees, you will need apparel rated to 0 or below.
Sweat also plays a role in comfort and productivity. Moisture-wicking base layers are critical because when you sweat, your clothing gets wet, and it takes additional body heat to evaporate that moisture. Not to mention it becomes harder to stay warm and comfortable.
Restricting Movements – Thicker Isn’t Always Better for Productivity
If it’s really cold, you’ll need a thicker garment. But this could create extra bulk and hinder freedom of movement. Staying warm is paramount for safety and concentration, so look for apparel that keeps you warm without restricting mobility. RefrigiWear’s PolarForce collection strikes a balance with stretchable material at high flex points, like elbows, back and knees. Softshell workwear from RefrigiWear is a great example of how combining the right outer layer, insulation and inner lining creates warmth without sacrificing flexibility.
Stay Warm in Challenging Refrigerated Environments
Modern technology has done a lot to prevent perishable items from going bad too quickly. Obviously, this applies to frozen foods but also to medicine, flowers and our huge selection of year-round vegetables. Getting this to our tables takes people working in refrigerated warehouses 8 hours a day, sometimes even in minus-zero warehouses. How do these brave workers stay protected? Thankfully, RefrigiWear insulated apparel was literally made for the people that work in these refrigerated environments.
Protection When It’s Always Cold
There are more considerations than just the air temperature. You have to stay warm to remain productive as well as to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. This means you must be outfitted in the insulated workwear that is made for protecting you on the job for extended periods. Choosing the right products for cold warehouses is like choosing the right tools. So make sure to consider not only insulated jackets but other apparel, like bib overalls and cold weather headwear, for the right apparel for your specific job duties.
Keep Extremities Warm with Footwear and Gloves
Your extremities—fingers and toes—are most susceptible to damage in the cold. And if you’re in a cold or refrigerated warehouse all day, you are exposed all day. Pick insulated footwear and boots that are made for contact with cold concrete floors or else the glue will freeze and crack and your soles will fall off. Insulated work gloves are critical for safety and overall alertness since you can’t focus on anything if your hands are cold. Also consider insulated touchscreen gloves so you don’t have to keep removing them to use devices on the job.