With winter fast approaching, it’s time to focus attention on warming PPE for workers who will be exposed to extreme weather conditions in the months ahead. Construction and utility workers, road crews, commercial fishermen, police officers, firefighters and military personnel all require specialized clothing and accessories that will help them retain essential body heat and remain active while avoiding dangerous conditions like frostbite and hypothermia.
Frostbite occurs when the skin and body tissue just underneath it freezes. It usually affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes and can permanently damage body tissue. In severe cases, it can lead to amputation. Symptoms of frostbite include numbness; a tingling, stinging or aching sensation; and skin that appears blue-tinged or waxy.