Townsville Bulletin

HEALTH A VITAL TOOL OF TRADES

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TRADIES are being crippled by preventabl­e injuries, fuelling calls for those regarded as “industrial athletes” to step up and better protect their health and livelihood.

While tradies make up just 30 per cent of Australia’s workforce, they suffer a massive 60 per cent of workplace injuries, Safe Work Australia figures show.

Australian Physiother­apy Associatio­n’s national chair of occupation­al health group Dave Hall urged workers to not take risks at work and seek help for injuries without delay.

“Physios are always commenting among each other how a self- employed tradie has to lose a limb before they stagger into physio clinic to get assessment,” he said.

Tradies mostly suffer injuries to the lower back, neck, shoulders and knees. They usually lose about five to six weeks from work each year.

APA is launching Tradies National Health Month on August 1 to urge those in the industry to consider their health before they pick up their tools.

“Getting yourself fit and physically resilient is important,” Mr Hall said.

Roofer Aaron Meilak ( pictured with Corey Rochester, right) ensures he is fit for work with cross fit. “You’ve got no choice really but to be fit or you can’t do the work,” he said.

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