Layering and Moisture Management for Cold

Talking points

1. The layering system has three components: a moisture-wicking base layer (synthetic or merino wool), an insulating middle layer (fleece or down), and a windproof/waterproof outer shell.
2. Cotton is the enemy of cold weather work. Wet cotton conducts heat away from the body 25 times faster than dry clothing. Use synthetic or wool base layers that wick moisture.
3. The biggest cold weather mistake is overdressing. Workers who sweat heavily in thick clothing become dangerously cold when they stop moving because the trapped moisture chills them.
4. Change into dry base layers at breaks if you are sweating. Carrying a spare dry shirt can prevent a case of hypothermia in the afternoon.
5. Protect extremities — hands, feet, ears, and nose lose heat fastest. Insulated gloves with liners, wool socks, balaclava or neck gaiter, and insulated boots are essential.

Ask the crew

Is anyone wearing cotton as a base layer today — and do you have a dry change of clothes if you start sweating?

Standards this talk is built on

• Section 5(a)(1)

A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.

Sign-in sheet

Print this page to collect signatures, or run the talk in Jobsite and workers sign in on their phones.

© Jobsite. Free to read aloud, print and use in your own crew's safety meetings. Republishing, reselling or bulk-copying these talks is not permitted.