Urgent Health Alert: High Blood Pressure in Tradespeople and Construction Professionals Often Overlooked

“It’s a stark reality that 50% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable through early diagnosis of high blood pressure.” — Professor Trudi Grant, Executive Director of Public and Population Health

High blood pressure, often termed the ‘silent killer,’ affects millions across the UK and Ireland. Despite its severity, it frequently goes undetected, particularly among tradespeople and construction professionals who face unique health challenges. To address this issue, the Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership (SASP) has partnered with SPARK Somerset to provide essential blood pressure checks directly to those in need. This initiative supports NHS Somerset and Somerset Council’s ‘Take the Pressure Off’ campaign.

In this article, SASP has shared valuable insights with G&L Consultancy on blood pressure risks and mitigation strategies specifically for those in the trade and construction sectors.

This information comes ahead of their Workplace Wellbeing Drop-in Event on December 4th (10am-3pm), where free health checks, including blood pressure readings, and advice on healthy living will be offered. Additionally, SPARK is providing blood pressure monitors for public use at various other venues across the county.

If you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms, please seek medical advice immediately.

The Importance of Regular Blood Pressure Checks for Tradespeople and Construction Professionals

G&L asked SASP to shed light on the surprising number of people affected by high blood pressure. “Every day, 350 people in the UK suffer a stroke or heart attack that could have been prevented with early detection and treatment,” SASP revealed. This statistic is alarming, and even more concerning is that high blood pressure symptoms are often not obvious until it’s too late.

This issue affects everyone, but tradespeople and construction professionals can sometimes go unnoticed due to their demanding schedules. Many do not have the time to attend doctors’ appointments when on-site or working nights, leading to days spent sleeping instead of visiting the doctor.

Some employers may also fall short in providing adequate support, coupled with a work environment that does not promote general health and well-being. Instead, employers tend to focus more on job-specific health and safety concerns, such as falls from heights and exposure to harmful substances—which, of course, are also very important.

 

Construction Work is Physically Demanding and Stressful

SASP recognises the intensity of construction work. “Construction and trade work require strength, endurance, and quick reflexes. Heavy lifting, machinery operation, and physical tasks can strain the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to high blood pressure,” SASP highlights. “If unnoticed, this could result in dangerous situations, like dizziness or fatigue, causing accidents or injuries. Additionally, stress from deadlines, long hours, and unpredictable schedules can raise blood pressure. When combined with physical strain, stress has a significant impact on heart health.”

 

High Blood Pressure Causes Chronic Conditions and Leads to Loss of Income

Consistently elevated blood pressure can lead to a loss of income, which, in a society where bills are high, can cause strain in the household and take a toll on mental health for earners. “High blood pressure can lead to chronic conditions, including heart disease and kidney failure, which may force tradespeople to stop working,” says SASP. “Medical emergencies can lead to time off, lost income, and long-term health issues.”

 

Supporting Physical Longevity in a Demanding Career

At G&L Consultancy, our operatives are highly active and constantly exerting themselves on the job. This is the same across many firms in the UK. This increased activity level can place additional strain on an already stressed cardiovascular system which may have been impacted by unhealthy living. SASP highlights that due to the repetitive movements and exertion, it’s crucial to maintain overall general health. “Maintaining cardiovascular health with regular blood pressure checks, a healthy diet, and exercise can help tradespeople remain physically fit for their careers. Healthy habits extend work longevity and improve life quality outside of work.”

It’s never too late to adopt a healthy, balanced lifestyle. By taking action now, you can enhance your well-being, prevent burnout, and—reiterating earlier comments—mitigate potential income loss due to taking time off work.

 

How to Recognise and Manage High Blood Pressure

SASP is hosting a Workplace Wellbeing Drop-in at their Somerset branch in Wellington on 4th December, from 10am to 3pm. They will provide free blood pressure checks, lung health assessments, and personalised conversations and guidance. G&L Consultancy encourages our local trade clients to take advantage of this opportunity and get a free check-up to ensure their health is in top condition.

 

SASP Offers Some Quick Tips for Managing Blood Pressure

1. Regular Check-Ups: Include blood pressure monitoring in health check-ups at least annually, or more often if recommended.

2. Stay Active: Engage in physical activities like stretching, walking, or swimming to support heart health. Check out SASP’s ‘Things To Do’ webpage.

3. Eat a Balanced Diet: Choose fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains; limit salty and processed foods.

4. Manage Stress and Mental Health: Try stress-reducing activities like deep breathing, meditation, or enjoyable hobbies. Why not join your local Unbreakable Men group? SASP runs one every Tuesday at Chelston Business Park.

5. Avoid Smoking, Excessive Alcohol and Caffeine: All can increase blood pressure. Minimise these habits for heart health. If you’re thinking about giving up smoking, get free help and support here.

6. Know the Symptoms: Recognise signs of high blood pressure—headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath—and seek medical help if they occur.

 

Summary

Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership’s collaboration with SPARK Somerset is a fantastic initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of high blood pressure and the importance of regular check-ups. Although this article focuses on tradespeople and construction professionals, it’s crucial to remember that high blood pressure can affect anyone. Please share this information widely—you never know who might catch a medical issue early, prevent long-lasting damage, and live a happier, healthier life.

Visit the Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership website for more information.

G&L Consultancy provides occupational training courses, such as Health & Safety Awareness, specifically designed for construction workers. By completing this course, participants can reduce onsite risks and alleviate stressors that may also impact personal health.