ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area physical demands of the trade

Well I have hardly had an ache or a pain that a good night's sleep didn't cure. My own suspicion is that guys who get hurt are taking risks or pushing themselves past safe limits. I totally agree with reno's assesment that you sometimes exercise muscles you didn't know you had.. Also I have met many a guy who complained about their aches and pains, but they were caused by injuries they got outside of work- motorcycle crashes, skiing accidents etc.. now you can't really blame that on the work in the trade. My bigggest chronic complaint are the little scratches and cuts or splinters that I accidentally inflict upon myself while working, but aside from a scar or two it really doesn't take a long term toll on your health.. a 3 day weekend fixes most cuts and scratches

Just a few things from my personal experience.
1) KNEEPADS are a MUST! Don't be shamed into not using them by others- Trust me.
I have the knee pain to verify this

2) Sturdy work boots. I always advise to stay away from those hiking type boots. Go with top of the line leather over the ankle supportive boots. It's real easy to turn your ankle on the job site.

3) Safety Glasses - You only have one set of eyes and they can't be replaced.

4) Lift correctly - How macho is it to pull your back out and spend a week in pain ?

And here's one that most guys don't speak of. Use top quality tools! I refuse to use sub standard tools . They just break and end up costing you money or worse INJURE you.

As I become more chronologically gifted, I have noticed more minor aches & pains & stiffness. All of which reacts well to aspirin or ibuprofen.

The biggest problem I have is a hearing loss (not severe & probably partially due to age) . When I started, hearing protection was not an issue. So I would add using ear plugs to the list. of PPE

Treat your feet well, when they hurt, so does the rest of your body. Cheap boots just don't cut it.

Treat you knees good too, don't squat when putting in receptacles. This will catch up with you.

I've noticed more sharp edges on electrical equipment in the past few years (maybe its my thin skin), so I've taken to wearing pigskin gloves most of the time. These gloves are so soft, I can still deal with small scres. Everytime I retire a pair, I'm amazed at how many nicks & cuts the gloves have accumulated.

Basically what I think everyone is saying is that if you take care of yourself & not try to be a tough guy, barring an accident, you should be OK.

Tom

Thanks for all the good advice guys! It is much appreciated.