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12 Blue-collar health problems and how to prevent them

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Since a long time ago, the classification of blue and white-collar jobs was not being used or mentioned heavily in research. They have been replaced by more inclusive terms: industrial (producing products) and service jobs.

However, since the last two terms are not widely known to the public, we will use the old terminologies: blue and white-collar jobs (in this article, we will focus on blue-collar jobs and their challenges.)

Blue-collar jobs are the backbone of the Canadian economy. They constitute about 17% of the total jobs in the Canadian market.

Those jobs are known for their satisfaction and sense of accomplishment, and ownership. You are actually seeing the physical fruit of your work, as opposed to white collars who deal with computers and lots of paperwork.

Due to the extreme importance of blue-collar jobs, Ogden Pharmacy in Calgary wants to provide some insights into the health hazards associated with the industrial sector so that workers and technicians can take better care of themselves.

These hazards can be both physical and psychological. It is important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself.

1. Musculoskeletal injuries.

Engaging in laborious activities that involve operating heavy machinery or performing the same physical motions repeatedly can result in musculoskeletal injuries, such as back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis.

To safeguard against such injuries, it is essential to take regular breaks and practice proper body mechanics while working. This is especially true when completing tasks that require repetitive or strenuous movements. Taking adequate rest breaks and using correct posture and body mechanics can help to prevent musculoskeletal injuries.

2. Respiratory problems.

Working in dusty or smoky areas can be detrimental to your lungs and can lead to a range of respiratory issues, such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

To safeguard your lungs and avoid any potential health risks, it is essential to wear a dust mask or respirator while in such environment. These protective masks are designed to filter out fine particles that can have a negative impact on your respiratory system. Additionally, wearing a mask can help reduce your risk of exposure to hazardous materials typically found in these areas.

3. Hearing loss.

If you are accustomed to operating in an environment where there is a lot of noise, you could be at risk of experiencing hearing damage. To protect your hearing, it is advisable to wear either earplugs or earmuffs. This will help to reduce the amount of sound you are subjected to and could prevent you from developing hearing loss.

4. Skin problems.

Handling hazardous chemicals can lead to a variety of skin problems, such as dermatitis and skin cancer. To ensure that your skin remains safe, it is essential to wear protective clothing while working and to take the time to wash your skin with soap and water after you are finished with your work.

Additionally, it is helpful to apply a lotion or cream to your skin after washing to replenish any lost moisture or to soothe any irritation that may have occurred. Taking these preventive measures will help ensure that your skin stays healthy and free of any harm that may have been caused by working with harsh chemicals.

5. Stress.

Working for extended periods of time, dealing with customers who are challenging, or having a great degree of responsibility can cause feelings of stress and can lead to stress-related illnesses such as headaches and ulcers

It is essential to take some time off, engage in physical activity, and speak to someone about any worries you may have to avoid stress. Taking regular breaks, exercising regularly, and talking to a trusted confidant can go a long way in helping you to cope with stress.

6. Addiction.

Working in a highly-demanding job can often result in harm being done to a person’s mental and physical health, including the development of substance abuse issues or opioid addiction.

To avoid this, it is important to seek assistance if any signs of struggling are detected. It is also beneficial to create a support system to provide a sense of comfort and security. Additionally, taking regular breaks, engaging in physical activity, and engaging in activities that bring joy or relaxation can reduce overall stress levels and help prevent the onset of addiction.

7. Depression.

If you don’t enjoy working with your colleagues or your job makes you isolated, this might lead you to depression. To prevent depression, it is important to socialize with friends and family, exercise, and find a hobby you enjoy.

8. Obesity.

Long hours of work can make you mentally and physically fatigued.

To try and alleviate this exhaustion, some people may turn to eating as a coping mechanism, which can result in obesity. In order to avoid this, it is essential to take steps to handle stress in a healthy way, eat nutritious foods, and exercise in a safe manner. Taking the time to prioritize these activities can help to prevent obesity and protect your physical and mental health.

9. Heart disease.

Living in a situation of heightened anxiety can put you at greater risk of developing heart disease. Therefore, to guard against this health issue, it is essential to participate in physical activity, consume a nutritious diet, and abstain from smoking cigarettes. Taking these steps can help you to protect your cardiovascular system and reduce the possibility of developing heart disease.

10. Diabetes.

Spending too much time at work and not eating properly or being overly stressed can lead to diabetes. To stop this from happening, it is necessary to work out, consume a balanced diet, and keep an eye on your blood sugar.

11. Cancer.

Working with dangerous materials can be a risk factor for developing cancer. To reduce the risk of cancer, it is essential to be mindful of safety precautions and take steps to reduce exposure to hazardous materials. This may include wearing protective clothing, such as a respirator, goggles, gloves, and a full-body coverall while working with hazardous materials, as well as other safety measures, such as using proper ventilation, keeping the area well-ventilated, and using appropriate disposal methods.

Additionally, minimizing contact with hazardous materials and avoiding unnecessary exposure can help to protect against potential health risks.

12. Gastrointestinal problems.

Working in a contaminated environment can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as food poisoning and diarrhea. To prevent gastrointestinal problems, it is important to wash your hands often and to avoid eating food that has been contaminated.

Again, this list is not exhaustive and should not be a barrier to work in any kind of work. The main goal of the article is to be educated, protected, and proactive in how to approach your job and enjoy it with no suffering or problems and to seek medical and healthcare help whenever you think you need it.

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