Working outside in the winter comes with a number of unique risks. With temperatures dropping and snow and ice coating the ground, workers need to be extra careful. A big winter storm could knock out electricity, heat, and communications for hours, or even days, as evidenced by the devastating 2013 ice storm in central and eastern Canada. Climate change could make these winter storms more frequent and intense since warmer air holds more moisture.

Canada is often referred to as the great white north, and with good reason – the winters are snowy and cold. Temperatures in some cities could drop as low as -30 or -40 degrees Celsius. But don’t let this scare you. Know that life goes on as usual, even during such extreme weather. The key is to be well-prepared and embrace winter activities, so you can make the most of the cold weather.  

Winter in British Columbia

British Columbia is a large province, and its climate varies significantly from one region to another. For example, we have some of the wettest climates in Canada as well as some of the driest. Some regions are very mild, and others have more extreme ranges in temperature.

British Columbia’s climate is influenced by the Pacific Ocean and our mountain ranges.

In Abbotsford, We’re on the USA/Canadian border, and our winter weather is usually lighter in comparison to the rest of the country. Snowfall can be heavy but usually not very long-lasting, on average falling mostly in December and January.

How to dress for the winter in Canada

Without the proper clothing, workers open themselves up to risks like frostbite, hypothermia, and freezing of exposed extremities like fingers, toes, and ear lobes. In fact, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety advises that those working in temperatures at or below four degrees Celsius wear protective clothing. But what does protective clothing entail?

• Layers should be worn so one can adjust the amount of clothing they’re wearing based on the temperature. Layers are also helpful in cold temperatures, as the air between layers provides better insulation than the clothing itself.
• Wear a wind-resistant outer layer. If it’s raining or snowy outside, a waterproof outer layer should be worn.
• Moisture-wicking fabric will keep sweat from freezing and keep you dry. If the clothing next to your body becomes wet, its insulation value will drop dramatically.
• Shoes that are waterproof or treated with waterproof materials should also be worn. Footwear should have good traction to help reduce the likelihood of a slip and fall injury.
• A knit cap or liner should be worn under hard hats.
• A scarf and mittens (or insulated gloves) should be worn if necessary.
• If protective eyewear is needed for your line of work, ensure it provides protection against ultraviolet light from the sun, glare from any snow, blowing snow and ice crystals, and high winds at cold temperatures.

Precautions to take when working in the cold

When working outside in the winter, there are a number of things to consider before you step out the door.

• The weather: Be sure to monitor weather warnings and keep an eye on notices from Environment Canada for wind chill warnings and cold alert notices.
• The location of your job: Take where you’ll be working into consideration. For instance, if you’re going to be working on a roof and there’s freezing rain overnight, you’ll want to take extra precautions or reschedule the work, if possible.
• Tools: Workers shouldn’t have to remove their gloves while working outside, if possible. Ensure that any machines or tools you or employees are using are designed so that they can be operated while wearing gloves. Some tools may also not work at their best in extreme cold, so plan accordingly if work needs to be done inside a garage or workroom.
• Breaks: Set up warm break areas so there’s somewhere for employees to go and warm up if needed, taking social distancing protocols into consideration. If you’re working outside, try to plan for breaks to give yourself time to rest, warm-up, hydrate, and eat.
• A buddy system: Assess the work being done and consider having a buddy system if circumstances warrant it. For example, if you’re working at heights or in a confined space, you may want another person on-site in case of an emergency.

Ready to work in Canada? 

At Valley Personnel, we build lasting relationships to create the best fit for you.  If you’re a  company looking for an executive or other qualified office staff to grow your business? Are you a qualified professional looking for a new career or a new position in the Fraser Valley? Visit our website to learn more about how our qualified recruiting team can meet your needs and exceed your expectations. 

 

We are seeking a recruiter, and it could be you! 

Valley Personnel Ltd. is Fraser Valley’s top full-service employment agency and is hiring internally! If you are an outgoing person with a background in recruitment, you could be just the person we are looking for to join our team as a Recruiter.

 

At Valley Personnel, We are focused on people—outstanding people. Our team has been building solid relationships and growing an extensive network in the Fraser Valley for over 45 years. As a result, we have strong connections to some of the best organizations and the most talented minds in the Valley.

We are searching for an individual who aspires to work for a growing company and to join a diverse and hardworking team of people in the heart of the bustling Fraser Valley. We value our people and offer an open, supportive working environment, and we cannot wait to meet the right person to join our growing recruitment team. 

If you’re interested in this exciting opportunity, visit our website to learn more.

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