Tradies are often stereotyped as rough-and-tumble workers battling the weather – rain, hail or shine – to get the job done. And while this stereotype was true for a while, it became problematic when tradies felt like they had to push through injuries – physical or mental – even if they wanted to speak up. These hardworking individuals play a vital role in constructing our homes, offices, and infrastructure. However, their tireless efforts often come at a cost - their health. To address this concern, Tradie Health Month was established to focus on the wellbeing of these essential workers.

In this blog, we will delve into the significance of Tradie Health Month, explore the unique health challenges tradies face, and discuss essential strategies to prioritise their health.

The importance of Tradie Health Month

Tradie Health Month is an Australian initiative that takes place annually during August. It was established by the APA because physiotherapists are uniquely placed to prevent and treat musculoskeletal concerns throughout a worker’s lifespan. With tradies making up 30 per cent of the workforce, it’s in all our interests to help them stay healthy.

The primary objective of Tradie Health Month is to raise awareness about the health issues affecting tradies and promote healthy lifestyles within this industry. This month-long campaign serves as a platform to highlight the significance of investing in tradie wellbeing to ensure a sustainable and thriving workforce.

What do the stats say?

Just like Shakira’s hips, the stats don’t lie. Here are some of the most concerning statistics from the APA’s tradie survey.

• 88% of respondents strongly agreed they take good care of their work tools.
• 61% strongly agreed they take good care of their body.
• 69% believe that being sore is normal for the work they do.
• 68% say they find it hard to do their job if they aren’t at their physical best.
• Only 68% say they follow safe lifting guidelines.
• 58% say they stop doing something if it feels bad, leaving 42% pushing their bodies past the healthy limits.
• Only 24% stretch or warm up before starting work. This means about three-quarters are going into physically demanding work cold.
• 85% of workers involved in workplace safety incidents continue to work in the job where their injury or illness occurred.
• Tradies make up only 30% of the workforce but represent 58% of serious claims.

The unique health challenges faced by tradies

Being a tradie is physically demanding and mentally challenging, which can lead to specific health issues. Some of the primary health challenges faced by tradies include:

Musculoskeletal injuries

Tradies are exposed to physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy materials, bending, and repetitive movements, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, including strains, sprains, and back problems. Musculoskeletal injuries like slipped discs and lumbar sprains make up 15% of workplace injuries for tradies.

Hearing loss

Constant exposure to loud machinery and equipment, such as drills and saws, can cause significant hearing damage over time if proper protective gear is not used.

Respiratory problems

Tradies working with hazardous materials, such as asbestos or chemicals, are at risk of developing respiratory issues if they do not use appropriate protective equipment.

Mental health

The demanding nature of the job, long hours, and tight deadlines can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression among tradies. Statistics show:

• Men are three times more likely than women to take their own lives.
• The suicide rate among young tradesmen is three times higher than for other men.
• Construction workers are at least six times more likely to die by suicide than in workplace accidents.
• On average, 190 construction workers die by suicide each year.

Sun exposure

Outdoor tradies are often exposed to prolonged periods of sunlight, increasing their risk of skin cancer and other related conditions.

Strategies to prioritise tradie health

To ensure the wellbeing of tradies, various strategies can be implemented throughout Tradie Health Month and beyond:

Education and training

Providing tradies with comprehensive health and safety training can empower them to adopt preventive measures and use appropriate protective gear to minimise risks.

Regular health check-ups

Encouraging regular health check-ups will help identify health issues at an early stage, enabling prompt intervention and treatment.

Promoting healthy lifestyles

Initiatives such as healthy eating campaigns, support to quit smoking, and physical activity challenges can motivate tradies to adopt healthier habits.

Mental health support

Raising awareness about mental health issues and providing access to counselling services and support groups can help destigmatise mental health challenges and encourage seeking help.

Sun safety awareness

Implementing sun safety protocols, such as providing shade, promoting the use of sunscreen, and encouraging the use of protective clothing, can reduce the risk of skin cancer. Getting regular skin checks is another great thing tradies can do to ensure they’re looking after their skin.

Workplace ergonomics

Encouraging proper ergonomics in the workplace, such as adjusting workstations and using appropriate tools, can minimise the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

Supportive work environment

Creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where tradies feel comfortable discussing health concerns and seeking assistance is crucial.

Collaborative efforts for tradie well-being

Tradie Health Month is not just a responsibility for individual tradies or employers; it requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders:

Employers

Employers must prioritise the health and safety of their tradie workforce by providing proper training, investing in safety equipment, and promoting a culture of wellbeing.

Unions and associations

Trade unions and industry associations can significantly advocate for better working conditions and access to health resources.

Government

Governments can support tradie health by implementing and enforcing occupational health and safety regulations and funding health promotion initiatives.

Healthcare providers

Healthcare professionals can contribute by providing specialised health services tailored to the needs of tradies and participating in health awareness campaigns.

Tradie Health Month serves as a reminder that the health of our hardworking tradies is vital. By recognising and addressing the unique health challenges they face, implementing preventive measures, and fostering a supportive work environment, we can ensure that tradies remain healthy, happy, and productive contributors to our society. Whether you’re a tradie or have a tradie in your life, ensure you’re listening to your mind and body and seeking help – physical or mental – when required.

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