Toolbox offers construction workers advice on how to stay warm

Toolbox has offered tradespeople and construction workers its advice on how to help them stay warm, as we enter the winter months.

The insurance company has suggested companies instruct their employees to; wrap up their hands and feet, eat the right foods and to prepare the site – if you are expecting snow or ice overnight it might be better to lay some grit down.

A spokesperson from Toolbox said: “Staying warm while working on a construction site is vital as it not only protects our health, but also our safety and levels of productivity.

“The cold can impair focus, increase the risk of accidents, and lead to cold-related illnesses, so by prioritising warmth, construction workers will continue to optimise their performance, make sound decisions, and execute tasks with precision.”

It suggests that a good way to start your day in the winter months is to make a warm breakfast. Oats, whole grains, or rice are some examples of complex carbs which take longer to digest. These will help keep you warm and energised for longer while your body processes them.

The company also suggested that you kit-out your van or car with a few resources to help keep you warm, such as hand warmers, a spare jumper or coat, or even a dry pair of shoes.

It explained that, this way you’ll have additional methods you can use to keep yourself warm, or items you can lend to a teammate if the weather takes a turn.

Toolbox also suggests construction works reconsider the way that they work. It explained: “It’s important to take breaks at work, however, sitting down or standing still will make you lose heat. Consider purchasing some on-site heaters to keep in the break areas for your staff to use to keep themselves warm.

“Having a well-equipped, designated break area where you can fully relax, out of the cold, can diminish any fatigue and should keep the whole team in good spirits.”