21 October 2024

Hand Protection in Winter Months

As winter sets in, industries operating outdoors or in cold environments face unique challenges. Whether in construction, logistics, or utilities, one thing is certain: proper hand protection is crucial.


Failing to wear appropriate gloves in cold or wet conditions can lead to:

  • Serious injuries such as frostbite and chilblains
  • Reduced dexterity, increasing the risk of accidents
  • Long-term health issues like Raynaud’s Syndrome 
  • Decreased productivity, as workers struggle with numb fingers and reduced grip strength

To stay safe and efficient in cold weather, workers need gloves that provide insulation, waterproofing, and grip. Let’s explore the key factors to consider when choosing winter hand protection.


The Risks of Cold and Wet Conditions

In low temperatures, the body restricts blood flow to the hands to conserve heat. This causes:

🔹 Numbness and loss of grip strength

🔹 Slower reaction times, increasing accident risks

🔹 Weakened tactile sensitivity, making tool handling difficult


🔸 Cold Temperatures & Material Brittleness

Cold weather doesn’t just affect workers, it makes materials like metal, plastics, and rubber more brittle, increasing breakage risks. Proper grip and protection are critical in these conditions.

🔸 Wet Conditions & Heat Loss

Moisture trapped inside gloves speeds up heat loss, causing hands to get cold faster. Wet conditions also increase the risk of chilblains, dermatitis, and other skin conditions.


For industries dealing with snow, rain, or high-moisture environments, gloves with waterproof or water-resistant properties are just as important as insulation.


What to Look for in Winter Work Gloves

When selecting gloves for cold and wet environments, look for these key features:

1) Thermal Insulation

Winter gloves should trap heat without compromising dexterity. Traffi’s TG105 liner is a purpose-made thermal layer that can be worn beneath existing gloves, providing added warmth when needed.

🔹 Choose insulation levels based on task requirements

🔹 Double-insulated gloves for extreme cold conditions

🔹 Breathable linings prevent sweat buildup, keeping hands warm and dry


2) Waterproof or Water-Resistant Properties

For outdoor work in snow, rain, or damp environments, waterproof gloves are essential.

✔️ Waterproof membranes keep hands dry

✔️ Hydrophobic coatings prevent moisture absorption

✔️ Sealed seams offer extra protection in wet conditions


3) Grip & Dexterity

Warmth is only half the battle. Workers still need precision, flexibility, and grip to handle tools safely.

🔹 Coated palms (e.g., nitrile or latex coatings) enhance grip, even when wet

🔹 Flexible materials maintain movement and reduce fatigue

🔹 Ergonomic design improves comfort and control


4) Compliance with Safety Standards

Always ensure gloves meet industry safety standards:

✅ EN 511 – Protection Against Cold

✅ EN 388 – Mechanical Protection

This ensures the gloves provide insulation, abrasion resistance, and durability, all while keeping hands warm.


5) Sustainable & Carbon-Neutral Options

With growing demand for eco-friendly PPE, businesses can now choose gloves that protect both workers and the planet.


Traffi’s LXT range offers:

♻️ Carbon-neutral safety gloves

♻️ Sustainable materials and ethical production

♻️ Long-lasting durability, reducing waste


Investing in the right gloves for winter means:

✔️ Better safety & fewer injuries

✔️ Higher productivity & efficiency

✔️ Greater worker comfort & morale


Don’t let winter slow your team down. Equip them with the right gloves because cold hands should never mean unsafe hands. 

If you have any questions on this topic (or any other topic), send it across to [email protected] or, alternatively, you can pick up the phone and ask us on +44 1344 207090!