Why a healthy heating industry must not be at the expense of healthy tradespeople

Recent figures show that 2015 has got off to a brilliant start for plumbers and tradesmen across the UK. The Trade Pulse Report, conducted by Screwfix, revealed some interesting statistics showing there is a really positive feeling within the industry: 97% of tradesmen who were questioned in the survey are currently working. 59% of tradesmen expect business to improve over the next 12 months 40% of tradesmen are providing more quotes than this time last year 53% of tradesmen think the economy will grow over the next 12 months 78% of tradesmen have enough work to keep busy in 2015, compared to 74% in 2014 and 72% in 2013 It is great that the heating and plumbing industry is doing well, as is it is an excellent indicator that the overall health of the economy in the UK is improving. If people are willing to spend money on improvements to their homes, it’s a sign that things are getting better. However, another recently-released set of survey results shows the more human impact that increased work has on our tradesmen and engineers, showing that good health should not be taken for granted. A health-based survey, conducted by ECIS (the employee benefits company for the construction industry) of 200 plumbers and HVAC engineers, revealed some more sombre findings: 34% felt more under pressure in 2014 than in 2013 25% worked more hours than last year 33% are working over 50 hours per week 48% sometimes work evenings and weekends 18% have suffered stress and stress-related conditions (e.g. high blood pressure, headaches, panic attacks) 23% have considered changing career in the last year 87% said they were ‘very’ or ‘quite’ confident about their prospects for the future 47% were ‘very confident’ about their business So while business is looking really good for the UK’s tradesmen, we need to make sure we are not taking them for granted and are giving them to ability to work profitably but comfortably in a way that is not detrimental to their health. The happier and healthier our tradespeople are, the better it is for customers and the UK’s economy as a whole. Article by Benjamin Clarke