Being a construction worker can be a pretty hazardous occupation. In fact, EHS Today highlighted in a recent article that the majority of contractors will suffer at least one injury or illness in their career.
Staying healthy is one of the best ways to steer clear of accidents and ailments. The following are five health tips every construction worker should follow:
Health and Safety
Following all the appropriate safety regulations is essential if you want to enjoy a long and healthy career in construction. This means using the right equipment in the right way, and making sure you have received all the necessary training.
It’s your employer’s responsibility to make sure their site is safe for you to work on, but if you actively support their health and safety program, you can help keep accidents and injuries to a minimum.
Exercise and Stretching
Working on a construction site can be pretty strenuous. In fact, a lot of Japanese construction workers take part in group exercise sessions at the start of every shift, and with good reason too.
Whether you’re operating a crane all day or driving new forklifts around the site, chances are you’ll be able to do your job a lot better if your body is in shape. In addition to keeping you fit, regular exercise can improve your flexibility and reduce the amount of strain you are putting on your body. This will help you if you’re a construction worker who operates heavy machinery or lifts heavy equipment all day.
Healthy Diet
Fast food vendors are a common sight outside large construction sites, with plenty of workers looking to grab something quick to eat. While these might be a convenient way to get your lunch, hot dogs and burritos aren’t exactly a healthy diet.
Foods that are high in complex carbohydrates, like fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, will keep you healthy and give you the energy you need to get through the day. In addition, consider preparing your own lunch, this way you can be sure you’re eating right and save money too.
Watch the Weather
Construction is an all-weather business; so when you’re working outdoors, you need to know what to expect.
Key areas to protect against the cold are your head, hands and feet. If it’s cold, pack warm clothing that won’t restrict your body movement. If it’s hot, make sure you have some protection against the heat and sun. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water so you don't get dehydrated.
It’s easy to disregard the how cold or hot it might be outside when you’re hanging ten-stories in the air; so preparing before you get on site is a good idea.
Relaxation
Construction is not only a physical job but it can also be mentally exhausting and stressful. It’s important for construction workers to find a good ways to relax after a long shift – and preferably not on the sofa.
Team sports, running or walking are great ways to relieve stress. Even consider relaxing exercises like Yoga, which is a great way to stay fit and flexible as well as get rid of your stress.
If you work in construction, your career could last 30 or 40 years – as long as you follow safety procedures, exercise, eat right and take care of your mental health. Following these simple tips will help, and could even improve your quality of life away from the site too.