Working in the oil and gas industry is a lucrative endeavor, but the working conditions can often be quite punishing. If you are trying to change career paths and are willing to put up with some hard work, this industry might be one to consider. However, you must understand that in addition to being a tough job, this job involves working outdoors for extended periods. This can cause many mental and physical hardships you must be aware of if you want to pursue this occupation.
With that in mind, here is how oil and gas workers keep warm during the winter.
Layers Are the Key
If you want to work in this field, you need to invest in many different layers of clothing. For instance, purchasing fire-resistant outerwear will protect you from burning and the elements.
Due to the nature of the job, you’ll be switching tasks constantly. Wearing layers helps you become more versatile. Instead of wearing bulky clothing you can’t remove when it’s time to switch to a physically demanding task, you can take off a few layers so you don’t feel too hot. Long underwear is a critical garment for oil and gas industry workers because it’s lightweight, traps your internal body heat, and helps you stay dry.
Cover Up as Much as You Can
You must always cover your head and neck with some thick layers. It’s the bare minimum. However, if you genuinely want to protect yourself from the elements, you need to cover up as much of your body as you can to prevent heat from escaping.
Gloves, boots, thick pants, and a coat are great choices for staying warm outside, but you also need to ensure they’re strong enough to handle demanding environments. You don’t want your coat ripping in the middle of the season—working on an oil rig means you won’t be on land for some time. Materials such as synthetic fabric and wool are some of the best options for staying warm.
Stay Healthy
Staying healthy will also keep you warm while you live on an oil rig. Physical activity generates internal body heat which your layers will trap so you’ll have enough warmth to last the rest of the day. Also, cold weather depletes your energy and makes your body work harder, so eating a healthy diet is essential for preparing yourself to work outside all day in the cold.
Overall, working in this industry isn’t for the faint of heart. However, now that you know how oil and gas workers keep warm during the winter, you have the proper information to enter an industry that can earn you a sizable income.