With more than 13.5% of Australians employed in trades, there is a need for health promotion and education around the risks associated with this type of work. In June 2019, the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) released the findings of a Health Research Report on Tradies, which found that workers in trades tend to take better care of their tools and work vehicles than they do themselves.
As with any occupation, many health issues are unique to tradies. The APA report also found that the biggest health concerns facing tradies include:
- Back injuries and back pain
- High rates of musculoskeletal disorders
We will look at common issues that tradies face, as well as some health promotion tips for working in trades.
What Is Tradies National Health Awareness Month?
Tradies National Health Awareness month is held annually across Australia. Its main aim is to sensitise the general public about the health and safety risks associated with working in trades and encourage people to take steps to protect themselves. The campaign kicks off on the first day of August each year.
What Does the Research Say?
A 2019 report into the health of tradies found that at least 60% of Australian tradespeople experience joint or muscle pain at some point during their employment, which can have a big impact on their ability to work.
Many of the activities required in the trade sector are inherently hard on joints, such as carrying heavy tools, lifting and carrying loads, kneeling or squatting, and standing for long periods.
Other issues specific to the trades include:
• Working with chemicals, which can lead to skin rashes and irritations
• Being exposed to high levels of dust, fumes, and gases
• Having to regularly deal with power tools, which can result in hearing loss and other hearing problems
• Falling and slipping due to uneven surfaces and poor lighting
• Hazardous or slippery work environments
• Being exposed to noise levels above 85 decibels
• Exposure to cold, wet, and windy conditions.
What Can Be Done About it?
To help keep tradies safe, the APA promotes a series of health and safety messages and activities across the nation. This includes releasing a series of resources, including physio advice for tradies. Some of the best resources include:
How Physiotherapy Can Help Tradies
Trades require you to lift heavy objects, climb ladders, walk long distances, drive vehicles, stand for hours on end, and do other challenging tasks on the body.
Continued exposure to these demands can lead to low back injuries and chronic musculoskeletal pain. If you're experiencing back pain, talk to your doctor. They may suggest physiotherapy.
Physiotherapists can assess your musculoskeletal system and suggest solutions that can help alleviate your symptoms.
In addition to helping tradies with their injury management, physiotherapists can also help them with their strength and conditioning training to ensure they are ready for the physical demands of their job.
How Tradies Can Look After Themselves
If you work in trades, here are things you can do to reduce the risk of injury and increase your safety awareness:
Beware of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain affects a lot of tradies. It usually occurs when the spine is under strain, such as lifting heavy objects or bending down.
To prevent lower back pain, maintain good posture throughout the day. Sit up straight, and lift your hips high to increase the natural curvature of your spine. Keep your head upright, and avoid slouching or hunching over for long periods. Avoid leaning forwards at your desk, as this puts pressure on your spine.
When you sit, stand up as soon as possible and walk around for short bursts. Try to work standing up for a few minutes each hour. If you sit a lot, try switching to a standing desk for a couple of hours daily.
When it comes to your feet, make sure your shoes are well fitted and comfortable. If you're wearing the wrong footwear, you could be putting yourself at risk of injury.
Wear Protective Equipment
Be proactive and wear protective equipment if you're working in a dusty environment or are exposed to toxic chemicals. Protective gear can help reduce the risk of infection and help you avoid respiratory problems.
Exercise Regularly
In order to keep active and healthy, it's important that you get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days per week. This can include walking, running, swimming, or cycling, but it doesn't have to be strenuous.
Try and schedule your exercise into your working week, as it can help to make your time more productive and injury-free.
Look After Your Tools and Equipment
Ensure your tools and equipment are clean and maintain a good workspace. It can be tempting to skip maintenance because of time constraints, but neglecting your tools can lead to serious problems.
Have regular inspections to check your tools and spare parts frequently.
It is a good idea to note any parts that need to be replaced on a specific tool and mark the part on the tool. This way, you can easily identify and replace it when required.
Avoid Repetitive Movements
Avoid doing the same thing for a long time. This can cause muscle and joint fatigue.
If you're performing the same task for hours at a time, switch to a different task for a while. Try to keep your workload manageable and schedule regular breaks.
Have a First Aid Kit
Make sure you keep a first aid kit close by. Then, if you have an injury, you should be able to access the equipment you need to treat it.
The kit should have the basics, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, plasters, tape, scissors, a thermometer, and medication.
Make sure the kit is easily accessible. This might mean keeping it in your van or your tool belt or having it in a designated space in your workplace.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated while you're working is important for many reasons, including keeping your energy levels high, feeling less tired, and reducing your risk of injury. Be sure to drink water when you're at work, and try to stay well hydrated throughout the day.
Conclusion
Being a tradie can be challenging, and injuries are a fact of life. However, by looking after yourself, you can minimise the risk of injury and get the most out of your career.