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Toolbox Talk – Winter Hydration for Construction Workers
WHY YOU STILL NEED WATER IN WINTER
- Cold air is dry, which makes you lose water when you breathe.
- Heavy PPE and thermal gear make you sweat more—you just don’t feel it.
- You may avoid drinking to stay warm or skip toilet trips, but this puts you at risk.
RISKS OF LOW WATER INTAKE
- Fatigue – Lower alertness = higher risk of accidents
- Headaches and dizziness – Early signs of dehydration
- Poor concentration – Increases chances of human error
- Muscle cramps and heat strain – Yes, even in cold weather!
- Confusion – Severe dehydration can lead to serious medical issues
HOW TO STAY HYDRATED IN COLD WEATHER
- Sip warm water or herbal tea regularly
- Use insulated bottles to stop water from freezing
- Eat fruits like oranges or apples during breaks
- Avoid too much coffee or energy drinks
- Set an hourly reminder to take a water break
CHECK YOUR URINE COLOUR!
Use this chart to check if you’re drinking enough:
| COLOUR | HYDRATION STATUS | ACTION |
| No Colour | Over Hydrated | Cut back a little |
| Pale Straw Yellow | Good | Perfect – keep it up! |
| Translucent Yellow | Fair | Drink a little more |
| Dark Yellow | Lightly Dehydrated | Start hydrating now |
| Amber | Dehydrated | Drink water ASAP |
| Burnt Orange | Very Dehydrated | Serious – rehydrate now |
| Red | SEVERE – Medical Risk | See a supervisor/clinic NOW |
Red or burnt orange urine is a warning sign—DO NOT ignore it.
Site Supervisor Reminder:
Hydration is part of your PPE routine—just like your hard hat or gloves. A hydrated worker is a safe worker! Stay alert. Stay hydrated. Stay safe this winter!
Download the full Toolbox Talk document on Winter Hydration for Construction Workers below:
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