Simon Ash, UK sales manager at Haix, shares insights into the challenges faced by the forestry and arb industry during the winter months and how workers can stay safe with the right protective clothing and footwear. 

UK winters are becoming wetter and more unpredictable, and the changing nature of these weather conditions pose increased risks to those working outdoors. UK winters for the most recent decade (2014–2023) have been nine per cent wetter than 1991–2020, and last year there were seven named storms from September to December alone, the highest number since 2015. 

For many outdoor sectors, including forestry and arb, work must continue during the winter months, not only to maintain incomes and livelihoods, but also to keep the public safe amidst extreme weather patterns. During this time, arborists have a window of opportunity to conduct tree inspections and prune away potentially hazardous branches, which pose a greater risk when it’s windy, stormy or raining. 

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Working in a role with inherent safety risks which are heightened during the winter months means arborists must assess the additional seasonal challenges and put precautions in place to stay safe, whilst performing the job effectively. From appropriate PPE footwear to specific clothing, arborists must look out for themselves and their colleagues during the colder periods.

CHALLENGES DURING WINTER

The characteristics of winter are well-known by all. The days are colder, wetter, with fewer sunlight hours and potentially icy or snowy conditions. For the tree-care industry, such factors are intensified when working at height, handling heavy-duty equipment such as chainsaws, and battling different terrains.

Additionally, arborists must take other aspects into consideration such as not disturbing hibernating wildlife, climbing up slippery tree trunks and the risk of falling branches.

ADAPTATIONS

Over the years, footwear, clothing and equipment have evolved to protect against extreme conditions and meet changing safety requirements. An advanced worker safety management scheme must be put into place to ensure everyone is safe and no-one is taking unnecessary risks.

In terms of clothing, the three-tiered layering strategy is a good way to keep dry and warm. 

Firstly, a base layer must have moisture-wicking material to ensure sweat is absorbed quickly to maintain body temperature. The middle layer should consist of heavy insulated materials such as a thick fleece, whilst the outer layer must provide protection from the wind, water and cold. In addition, head, hands and eyes must also be protected with hats, gloves and safety goggles.

For arborists, selecting the right PPE footwear is critical. There are many factors that affect their work including labouring at height, walking on unsteady and diverse terrains which may be covered in fallen leaves, branches and ice, and also the use of chainsaws as part of their ‘hands-on’ work. As a result, workers need PPE footwear that is slip-resistant, comfortable, waterproof, and offers high levels of protection.

Leading design brands have looked to scientific innovation and market research to create boots specifically designed for the modern arborist. Companies such as Haix, a specialist in functional footwear, have partnered with waterproof, breathable fabric membrane manufacturer, Gore-Tex. Together, they have created boots with a four-layer Gore-Tex professional membrane throughout the lining, which has microscopic pores 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water but 700 times larger than a water vapour molecule, meaning perspiration and heat can escape from the inside but water cannot get in. This ensures feet are kept dry and comfortable throughout. 

When facing the elements in winter, investing in long-lasting, durable, high-quality, and industry-proven footwear makes all the difference. Not only does it lower procurement costs for employers, but when wearers are feeling comfortable, they will be fully concentrated on the job, thus reducing accidents, injuries and illnesses. 

Arborists, when preparing for the winter months must, at a minimum, ensure the shoe is fully compliant and meets the required safety standards. However, manufacturers like Haix also believe that it is the additional factors and details such as extra-slip-resistant soles and the 3-mm thick suede leather found in the Protector Forest 2.1 and Protector Ultra 2.0, combined with the four-layer Gore-Tex professional membrane, that offer the ultimate protection for winter.

INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE

The long-term benefits of being prepared and protecting you and your colleagues in winter should not be underestimated. Overall, arborists should look for innovating brands which exceed safety regulations, focus on comfort, and will give you a fantastic product that will last for years to come. 

With changing weather conditions in the UK resulting in new challenges for the forestry industry, now is the time to invest in a product which seeks to provide future-proofed protection against the winter elements.