How to Keep Your Farm Employees Warm in Winter Conditions

How to Keep Your Farm Employees Warm in Winter Conditions 

Working on a farm in winter brings more than just snow-covered fields. It introduces serious safety challenges for those working outdoors in dicey weather conditions. Cold weather can lead to frostbite, hypothermia and other health risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. As a farm owner or manager, keeping your employees safe and warm during winter is not just a responsibility. It’s essential for maintaining productivity and morale. 

Here are safety tips for working in cold weather and key strategies to help protect your team during the chilliest months. 

Require Proper Farming Attire for Cold Weather 

Start by clearly communicating your expectations for winter workwear. A quick team meeting or a printed checklist in the break room can go a long way. Make sure employees understand the importance of outdoor work clothes for winter, including use of layering and moisture-wicking materials to stay dry and warm. 

Recommended winter farming attire includes: 

• Base layer: Moisture-wicking thermal underwear
• Middle layer: Insulating fleece or wool
• Outer layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Accessories: Insulated gloves, wool socks, neck gaiters and thermal hats
• Footwear: Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction

Whether it’s farming or ranching attire, encourage employees to dress in layers so they can adjust based on activity level and temperature changes throughout the day. 

Provide Extra Winter Gear 

Even with proper attire, having extra winter gear for working outdoors on hand can make a big difference. Stock your farm with cold-weather essentials that employees can access when needed. 

Examples of winter gear to keep available: 

• Hand and toe warmers
• Extra gloves and hats
• Heated vests or jackets
• Thermal blankets
• Safety goggles for snow glare
• Waterproof overalls

This cold weather gear can be stored in a central location or distributed at the start of each shift. 

Set Up Heated Break Areas 

Breaks are more than just a chance to rest—they’re an opportunity to warm up. Create a heated space where employees can escape the cold, even if it’s just a converted shed or trailer. 

Tips for a warm break area: 

• Use space heaters or propane heaters (with proper ventilation)
• Provide warm beverages like coffee, tea or hot chocolate
• Stock snacks high in calories to help maintain body heat
• Offer dry towels and extra socks
• Keep seating and blankets available

A warm, welcoming break area can boost morale and reduce the risk of cold-related illnesses. 

Adjust Work Schedules 

Being a farmer in winter is no easy task. When temperatures drop dangerously low, it’s time to rethink the schedule. Shorter shifts, staggered breaks and rotating tasks can help reduce prolonged exposure to the cold. 

Cold weather work scheduling tips include starting work later in the morning when the sun has had a chance to warm things up, scheduling frequent warm-up breaks, rotating employees between indoor and outdoor tasks and monitoring the forecast to adjust plans accordingly. Being flexible with scheduling shows your team that their safety is a priority. 

Supply an Emergency Kit 

Prepare for the unexpected by keeping a cold-weather emergency kit on hand. This kit should be easily accessible and stocked with supplies that can help in case of injury or extreme cold exposure. 

Emergency kit essentials: 

• Hand warmers and thermal blankets
• First aid medical supplies
• Flashlights and batteries
• Extra clothing layers
• High-calorie snacks and water
• Emergency contact list

Train employees on how to use the kit and where it’s located. 

Stay Alert for Signs of Hypothermia or Frostbite 

Educate your team on the symptoms of cold stress and encourage them to speak up if they feel unwell. Early detection can prevent serious health issues. 

Signs of cold stress include: 

• Hypothermia: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, fatigue
• Frostbite: Numbness, white or grayish skin, hard or waxy-looking skin

If an employee shows signs of cold stress, move them to a warm area immediately and seek medical attention if necessary. 

Keep Lines of Communication Open 

Regular check-ins are vital during winter conditions. Encourage employees to report any concerns and make sure they know how to respond in an emergency. 

Communication tips include conducting brief safety check-ins at the start and end of each shift, regular use of radios or mobile phones to stay in contact during work, reviewing your emergency action plan with all employees and assigning a safety lead for each shift.  

Clear communication helps prevent accidents and ensures quick response when needed. 

Stay Safe and Warm This Winter

Farming or ranching in Winter doesn’t have to be dangerous. With the right clothing, gear and safety protocols, you can protect your employees and keep operations running smoothly. Prioritize warmth, plan ahead and foster a culture of safety on your farm. Need help preparing your farm for winter? Contact your local Farm Bureau agent to review your coverage and make sure your operation is protected against seasonal risks.