Any tradesperson knows that long hours and harsh jobsite conditions are a part of the industry, where strict project deadlines demand extensive overtime. Year after year, these taxing jobsite expectations can pay a toll. Jobsite fatigue is especially a cause for concern. Contractors are, in part, responsible for managing these conditions, so it is important for them to educate fellow tradespeople on how to minimize the risk of fatigue and the associated risk of injury while on the job. Today, 7MÊÓƵ is taking a closer look at the overall health of tradespeople – the good, the bad and the tiresome.
Getting necessary tasks done is a priority, but taking the time for needed breaks can help prevent jobsite fatigue and ensure that professionals complete their best work. Check out Klein’s Tradesman Pro™ Tough Box 9-Quart Cooler (Cat. No. 55625) to keep lunch items cool for up to 30 hours, and it even doubles as a place to sit on crowded jobsites!
Traveling between jobsites and working outside for long hours, well, all that has to have an impact on a tradesperson’s health. According to , tradespeople rank the healthiest in comparison to other self-employed workers in the U.K. The average tradesperson spends 80 percent of the day engaged in moderate or heavy manual work. They are more active and burn more calories in a single workday than any other profession, even more so than those working directly in the
Extended periods of physical activity also affect stress levels and reported happiness. A mere eight percent of building and maintenance professionals say their work causes them stress. Today’s tradespeople, particularly within the plumbing and building industries, also report – just one of the many benefits of joining the trades.
Unfortunately, the trades aren’t 100 percent health and happiness. The National Safety Council’s , draws attention to the impacts and risks of fatigue on the jobsite. Ninety-two percent of construction workers reported experiencing two or more risk factors, including working during high-risk hours (night or early morning), sleep loss and a demanding job. As risk factors increase, workplace injuries intensify because, among other dangers, fatigue causes decreased concentration.
Contractors and other employers can help mitigate these risks by:
- Rotating night shift employees
- Scheduling mandatory breaks
- Limiting overtime
- Closely monitoring shift changes
These changes, when made across all jobsites, encourage healthy worksite habits and help professionals put forward their best performance. In the meantime, tradespeople continue to look out for their own wellness as well as that of their brothers and sisters on the job. like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, getting enough high-quality sleep and knowing your own limits are important on a day to day basis.
What steps do you take to stay healthy despite demanding hours on the job? Share your tips with us on social media!