PROTECT YOUR BODY FOR (COLD & HOT) WEATHER'S HARSCH IMPACTS WITH ERGODYNE PRODUCTS
Seasons are becoming more extreme. And the ever-increasing unpredictability of Mother Nature is making it harder than ever for workers to prepare. Winter doesn’t release its grip until well into April. With these cold-weather, it’s more important than ever to be able to properly identify the most common cold-related illnesses, knowing what treatments to seek and how to prevent them in the first place.
A breathable, wind/water-resistant outer layer, an insulating middle layer and a breathable, moisture wicking base layer provide the protective barriers needed to combat cold. Protect extremities with thermal headwear and work gloves. Supplement with warming packs for feet, hands and liners.
While the long-held belief that about 50% of body heat escapes through the head has been debunked, the face, head and chest are more sensitive to changes in temperature than the rest of the body. And any part of the body left exposed in cold temps leaves workers at risk for cold related illness.
HEAD PROTECTION | BALACLAVAS
High-tech materials, insulation and thoughtful design deliver enhanced warmth matched with dry, breathable comfort that won’t overheat. Thermal Liners much like balaclavas, thermal liners provide a boost of warmth underneath head protection. Though not as versatile (or fun to say) as a balaclava, options like pockets for warming packs and optional facemasks allow workers to customize comfort and protection in changing conditions. Balaclavas are like a scarf, facemask and hat all in one. Balaclavas have become popular on worksites for their versatility, breathable/ moisture-wicking comfort and ability to fit under head protection.
HAND- AND FOOT WARMING PACKS
Hand Warming Packs » Natural contents heat up on contact with oxygen » Seal in zip-top bag to reuse » Heats up to 12 hours. Foot Warming Packs » Natural contents heat up on contact with oxygen » Seal in zip-top bag to reuse » Heats up to 7 hours. Whether in liners, boots or gloves, warming packs come in handy whenever you need to keep fingers and toes from freezing. Warming Packs adhere to the insole of a shoe or boot to keep feet and toes comfortable.
ICE TRACTION FOOT DEVICES
Slips, trips and falls are the second most common cause of accidental death every year. And even deeply lugged soles – which work great in mud, snow, gravel, etc. – may be inadequate for ice. Wearing some type of personal ice traction device may be a better option.
While versions of antislip devices have been available for generations, designs and materials have improved. Carbon Steel Cleats Ice traction devices with carbon steel studs can provide solid traction on ice and snow-covered surfaces. Heat treating the carbon steel hardens the compound, making it even more durable on rough terrain.
Easy On/Off Look for cleats with a one-piece design that stretch right over existing footwear. Modern thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are both durable and tested for cold weather use.
WHEN IT'S HOT
You can’t change the weather. But you can change your approach to working in the heat. Shelter and shade provide a reprieve from direct sunlight and an area for workers to rest, recover and cool down. Evaporative cooling vests combine water and airflow and help keep the body’s core temperature regulated. Heat-related illnesses and fatalities are 100% preventable when you know the risks, symptoms and solutions.
Evaporative cooling is a simple, effective, and relatively inexpensive approach that can be used in outdoor and indoor environments, but works best in drier, low-to-moderately humid conditions with sufficient airflow. Working on the same principles as how sweat cools the body, evaporative cooling solutions draw heat from workers’ bodies, using an external source of water. They can provide an enhanced cooling effect, even for workers still acclimatizing to new tasks, or to a change in environment. And they can help experienced workers keep their cool. While any damp rag could provide some relief, fabrics that hold moisture for an extended period of time, and products that are comfortable to wear, will provide more effective results for more productive workers. Using absorbent acrylic polymers, hyper-evaporative PVA, microfiber material or dry evaporative technology – these solutions activate quickly and easily to help you find your cool when the heat is on.
Three to 20 ounces of water provides up to three days of cool. Just pour in water, evenly distribute and 100% dry, lightweight cooling relief. With our exclusive dry evaporative technology, workers find their chill without getting bogged down (and it’s machine-washable!)
If you need any advice or you have a question, please don’t hesitate to contact our Height Safety Specialist by sending him an email to info@riggersworld.eu or call him at +31 (0) 75 650 47 50.
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