Surviving Winter Wonderland

6 tips for those working outdoors during winter

By Wayne Lodge, Chief Steward, Local 63

After having spent the best part of the last three years working in BC’s Lower Mainland, when I went back to work in Fort McMurray, Alberta, it was a bit of an adjustment. And winter has only just started!

Working outside in the winter can be a real test of endurance, like competing in an extreme weather version of Survivor.

But fear not, fellow winter warriors! With these six crucial tips, you’ll be laughing all the way to springtime. So, grab your thermal gear, and let’s dive in.

Tip 1: Layers, Layers, and More Layers

When it comes to winter wear, think of yourself as a human lasagna. One layer simply won’t cut it. You need at least three: a base layer to wick away sweat, an insulating layer to trap heat, and a waterproof outer layer to keep out the cold, wind, and snow.

Imagine this: you’re a cozy burrito, but instead of salsa, you’re wrapped in thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, and a windbreaker. Just don’t be surprised if you look more like the Michelin Man than the latest fashion icon.

The key is to avoid any gaps in your defenses: socks pulled up, gloves tucked in, and your Helly Hanson balaclava so tight your grandma would be proud. If you can walk onto the job site and hear “Ho, ho, ho!” from your coworkers because you look like Santa, then you’re doing it right!

Layers are your best friends—treat them well, and they’ll keep you warm.

Tip 2: Keep Your Feet Toasty

Nothing ruins a day on the job faster than cold, wet feet. Your feet are your foundation, so treat them with the utmost respect.

First, invest in some high-quality, insulated, waterproof boots. Make sure you’ve got CSA-approved composite toes. The metal steel toes transfer below zero temperatures fast!

Think of these boots as the luxury SUVs of footwear. They should be ready to tackle any terrain, no matter how slushy or icy.

Next, don’t forget the socks. And by socks, I don’t mean those sad, thin ones that come in a pack of 10 from the discount store. I’m talking about thick, moisture-wicking, woolen socks that could double as hand warmers.

If you can’t decide between wool socks and synthetic, just go ahead and wear both. Your toes will thank you.

Pro tip: Stash an extra pair of socks in your lunchbox. We’ve all been there, particularly in the spring or fall, stepping in a puddle at 8 a.m. and spending the rest of the day with soggy, cold feet. A quick sock change can mean the difference between a miserable day and a tolerable one.

Tip 3: Hot Drinks and Snacks Are Your Best Friends

Imagine this: you’re out on the construction site, the wind is howling, and you can’t feel your nose. Suddenly, you remember the thermos of hot cocoa you packed. It’s like a little slice of heaven in a cup.

Hot drinks are a must. Whether it’s coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, a warm beverage can give you that extra boost to keep going. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to take a (micro) break and thaw out your fingers.

And let’s not forget snacks. High-energy, easy-to-eat snacks are essential. Think trail mix, granola bars, or even a sneaky piece of chocolate. You’re burning more calories in the cold, so fuel up!

Consider it a reward for braving the elements. Just remember to keep your snacks in an insulated container so they don’t turn into frozen bricks. Nobody wants to chip a tooth on their trail mix!

And don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Just because it’s not 25 degrees doesn’t mean you don’t need to stay hydrated.

Tip 4: The Power of Positive (and Hilarious) Thinking

Keeping your spirits up during a frigid workday is half the battle. Surround yourself with coworkers who have a good sense of humour. A well-timed joke or funny story can make the day go by faster and make the cold seem a little less brutal. Think of it as mental insulation.

Consider starting a daily tradition of sharing the funniest winter mishap stories from the job site. Like the time when Jim’s moustache froze to his coffee cup because he forgot to wipe the snow off before taking a sip. Laughter truly is the best medicine, and it’s free!

And if you find yourself getting chilly, channel your inner comedian. We’ve all heard the scaffolders singing songs while they pump those cold steel ledgers. Talk to your tools, even if that means swearing at them from time to time.

Or imagine you’re starring in a survival documentary called Ice Road Constructors. Do whatever it takes to keep the mood light and your mind off the freezing temperatures.

Tip 5: Embrace the Penguin Walk

One of the most dangerous aspects of working outside in winter is the risk of falling. Remember the time Steve slipped on the ice and ended up doing an accidental interpretive dance routine with his toolbox? While the memory brings a laugh—thankfully, Steve wasn’t hurt—it highlights how dangerous winter work can be.

But fear not, for the penguin walk is here to save the day! When walking on icy surfaces, mimic our flippered friends: take small steps, point your feet slightly outward, and keep your arms out for balance. It may look a bit silly, but it’s far better than ending up like Steve flat on your back.

Think of it as an opportunity to practice your penguin impression. Waddle with pride, and if anyone laughs, just remind them that you’re slip-free while they’re flailing around like amateur figure skaters. Embrace the penguin walk, and your body will thank you for avoiding those unexpected ice baths.

Luckily, most sites I’ve been on provide a variety of ice cleats. As much as it may feel like a hassle to put them on, there have been times where I’m glad I did. Just remember they don’t always work well when you transfer from the parking lot to the metal steps.

Tip 6: What to Do for Frost Bite

If you do have exposed skin, such as cheeks or nose, remember to keep an eye on it. And not just yours but your coworkers too!

 A couple of minutes in a warm building or truck can mean the difference between a cold face and a frostbitten one. Not even your boss, who’s pushing to get the job done, wants you to get hurt.

Conclusion: Stay Warm with a Smile

Surviving outdoor winter work doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. By layering up like a lasagna, keeping your feet dry and toasty, sipping hot drinks, embracing humour, mastering the penguin walk, and keeping an eye on frostbite, you can conquer the cold with a smile.

Remember, the winter months are just a temporary challenge. Spring will be here before you know it, and you’ll have some great stories to tell around the job-site bonfire next year.

So, bundle up, stay safe, and don’t forget to laugh along the way. After all, a little humour can make even the frostiest days feel warmer.

Now, go forth and conquer the cold, you brave winter warriors, and stay warm out there!