Extreme weather conditions can add to potential workplace hazards. During winter, the dangerous combination of low temperatures and high wind speeds flags the risk of cold stress.

Cold stress is a weather condition that increases the rate at which heat leaves the body, faster than it can produce it. Faster windspeeds, increase the heat loss that the body experiences. Frost bites and hypothermia are two of the most common kinds of cold stress that present big risks for workers on the job if safety measures aren’t taken seriously. Therefore, weather-appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is important to help reduce health and safety risks related to extreme temperatures. It is also very important to cover all exposed areas of the skin as well as dress in warm layers to provide additional protection.

For many workers, their hands are one of the most important tools, and protecting them from frostbite and using the right type of gloves is a critical part of their PPE. When selecting gloves for work in cold weather, it is important to consider the balance between protection, flexibility, comfort and dexterity even at very low temperatures. It is crucial to look for options with features suitable to withstand harsh environments. Gloves that have a winter lining suitable for low temperatures top the list. Moisture-wicking fabric is also an important point to consider, as it helps keep workers dry and protected.. Depending on other hazards which may also be present in the working environment, other features must also be considered such as cut resistance, material coating for grip, impact protection, chemical resistance, or even food safety compliance.

During winter, layering on warm clothing is common. Body liners play an important role and are selected keeping in mind the severity of the weather condition, the duration of outdoor activity and the intensity of the tasks that will be performed. But it is often forgotten that the same goes for our hands. Aside from the usual winter gloves, workers can also use liner gloves for added protection against the cold during extreme weather conditions. They can even wear them under their existing work gloves.

Here at Granberg, we have a wide selection of winter gloves, tested under the European Standard EN 511. We have a variety of gloves for any task, even in the most dangerous jobs for those brave workers who do not get days off for snow.  Several of our winter gloves are equipped with a Protex™ Membrane that provides a layer impenetrable  to wind and rain while allowing heat and perspiration to exit freely to help keep workers' hands dry, warm and comfortable while working long periods of time.

Here are some of our favourites:

Granberg® 8080 Assembly Winter Gloves – Great for wet and cold environments, with a double latex coating and acrylic liner, keeping your hands warm and dry while providing good dexterity and fit. They are also, food approved (EN 1186)

Granberg® 4997W Cut-Resistant Winter Gloves EX® – Suitable for outdoor activities performed in cold and wet weather involving the risk of cut injuries. Offering thermal and cut protection from MicroSkin Shield® and the waterproof ProTex® membrane, to ensure your hands stay dry.

Granberg® 4999W Cut, Impact, and Water-Resistant Winter Gloves EX® – Also suitable for outdoor activities performed in cold and wet weather involving the risk of cut injuries, but with added impact protection. They use MicroSkin Shield® with the waterproof ProTex® membrane to ensure your hands stay dry.

Granberg® 0630W Nitrile Chemical Resistant Winter Gloves – Offering protection against cold and chemicals, diesel fuel, petrol and oil. They are food-approved (EN 1186), durable and providing a good fit. A great option for the fishing industry.

Granberg® 1053 Goatskin Work Gloves – This leather glove provides moisture resistance and good thermal insulation by combining the advantages of the ProTex® wind and waterproof, breathable membrane with a warm and soft fleece liner. The soft and strong goatskin leather provides good flexibility for gripping and handling objects.

Granberg® 4202 Touchscreen Compatible Assembly Winter gloves EX® – Recommended when operating with touch screen devices. The gloves are comfortable and offers protection against cold and moisture. The breathable ProTex® membrane ensures water resistance, and the reflective print on the back increases safety. An anti-slip pattern in the palm enhances the grip.

During these cold winter months, stay alert for the various winter hazards ahead. Get in touch with us now and we will be happy to help you find the correct hand protection for your Fearless Performance®.

Stay safe with Granberg gloves!