11 Dec

Muscle and joint pain for builders in construction

Due to the nature of building work being so taxing on the workers who carry it out, the industry is rife with long term joint and muscle pain. There are a variety of health problems which can arise from partaking in the work involved in the construction industry. Some of these problems include:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: this is a problem situated in the hands and wrists which occurs due to continual, repeated bending of the wrist and having too tight-a grasp on tools. Symptoms of this syndrome include feelings of numbness or tingling, burning and pain, as well as – in rarer cases – dry and shiny palms and clumsiness within the hand.
  • Tendinitis: this inflammation and soreness of the tendons is caused by the repeated movement of a particular joint. Tendonitis in different areas of the body will take on different names, such as Epicondylitis for tendonitis of the elbow, or ‘tennis elbow’.
  • Carpet layers’ knee: this condition is caused by the repeated use of knee kickers during the process of laying carpet.
  • Back pain: this can be caused by a number of factors including repeated lifting, sudden movements, whole body vibration, twisting and lifting simultaneously and even bending over for long periods of time. Back problems can appear very suddenly, but in fact often build up slowly over a period of time without being noticed.

 

The side effects of this line of work are unfortunate, but there are steps which can be taken to minimise the negative effects on the health of builders within the construction industry, or even prevent them altogether. As part of a good health and safety programme within your company’s infrastructure, these should include:

 

Preventative measures

  • Relative training so workers are fully informed of the correct procedures for actions such as bending and lifting in the workplace so they do not injure themselves.
  • Good working conditions involving regular breaks and chances for workers to address any issues or injuries rather than working despite them.

Specific techniques

  • Adequate protective clothing and equipment such as knee pads for kneeling when carrying out re-carpeting work as well as a whole host of other solutions.
  • Try to store heavier tools and materials at waist height.
  • Try to turn your whole body when lifting, rather than lifting and twisting.
  • Lift and lower materials steadily, in a smooth manner.
  • Use carts and dollies where and when you can to save your back from the pressure of heavy lifting.
  • Ensure your working areas are all dry so you do not slip.

 

Here at Hitchcock and King, we are proud to provide a number of high quality building materials and timber products to customers throughout London and the nearby areas. We have built our business on the principles of stock availability, quality products at competitive prices, fast delivery and great customer service; four factors which set us apart from our competitors. To find out more about any of the products we offer, or for any other enquiry, get in touch with our friendly team today and we’ll be happy to help, no matter the type or scale of your project.