Going to work when the temperature is below zero is a lot harder. Imagine having to trudge through a foot of snow to get to work. Then, there’s another thing we all hate about winter: the layers of clothes we have to wear. When you get into the bus or subway, you’ll remove at least your coat and shawl and scarf. The heater will kick in and your body will melt if you didn’t remove them.
At work, there’s a bigger likelihood of injuries and reduced work rate because cold temperatures affect finger dexterity, flexibility, and muscle strength. Our bodies are less likely to respond naturally. You should apply heat compress on your fingers and muscles to make sure they won’t feel frozen. This is also why plants and factories tap drum heater suppliers to make sure that any liquid material they have in the drums doesn’t solidify because of the temperature.
For Employees
If you’re working during the winter months, prepare to make a morning routine that will fit the cold temperature. Experts said to get at least six to eight hours of sleep per night. This will keep you in the right frame of mind. You won’t also feel lethargic and tired during the rest of the day. You’ll have more energy to tackle the tasks in front of you. Lack of sleep can be severely depressing. It will also reduce your productivity.
A good morning routine would be to eat a power breakfast that’s packed with nutrients and vitamins. If you can, run at least 30 minutes on the treadmill or outside to get your adrenaline pumping. It’s also important to take care of things in the house so you don’t feel like you missed something while you’re at work.
Hydrate as much as you can during winter. Your body needs fluids because it dehydrates faster during the colder months. Dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. That will affect your productivity at work. In terms of food, fats and carbohydrates are also important because your body uses them to stay warm.
There’s another thing that people don’t often talk about but needs attention: SAD or seasonal affective disorder. It’s a type of depression related to changing seasons. Many people go through a depressed state from autumn until the end of winter because of the lack of natural light, poor weather, and hectic lifestyles.
It’s important to not only dive into your work during this season but also to find ways to enjoy winter activities. Be conscious about how you’re feeling. Talk to a professional when you need to.
For Employers
Employers should also understand that the shift to the colder months may affect the productivity and efficiency of the team. There are many ways they can help their employees combat the difficulties of working under cold temperatures. For example, they can adjust their working hours or allow office staff to work from their homes if they want and need to. If it’s safer for them to stay indoors, especially if there’s a snowstorm coming, make this option available to them.
Food and liquid are essential for the body’s hydration. Show your employees how much you appreciate their hard work during this time by providing coffee, tea, water, and snacks. You should also make sure there are heated shelters or cabins for those who are working in the field. Allowing your employees to change to more comfortable clothes while they’re in the office is another way to help them get through the season.
How prepared are your employees to detect if they are already suffering from hypothermia? Even before the fall season starts, train your employees in first aid. They should be able to help their fellow employees in case of an accident.
Provide them also with personal protective equipment (PPE), especially those working in the field. Layers of clothing with polypropylene, polyester, or merino material will protect them better. Make them wear protective accessories, too, to cover the head, hands, and feet. If gloves will their movement, just provide air blowers or insulated handles for the tools.
Plan your work according to the weather. Check the weather reports. Cancel work if it’s particularly cold. Talk to your clients about adjusting the schedule and deadlines depending on how harsh the weather is. You have to look after your workers first.
For both employers and employees, you should be fully aware of the risks of working outdoors and even indoors during the winter season. But as long as there’s a plan in place, your organization is going to be prepared to weather through this season. Make sure everyone understands the cold-weather policies, and you wouldn’t have to worry about productivity, efficiency, and safety in the workplace.
