Construction workers and companies can be more proactive in their health care. This is the message from Dr. André Oliveira Jardim, general practitioner at Seconci-SP (Construction Social Service), on the occasion of World Health Day, celebrated on April 7th.
“Regular medical monitoring is relevant not only for the treatment of acute or chronic illnesses, but mainly for the promotion and prevention of health. In the case of the construction industry, this involves creating conditions for adequate nutrition, frequent physical activity, stopping alcoholism and smoking, and taking care of mental health, an issue that became prevalent after the pandemic, but which for many is still faced. as taboo”, says Dr. Garden.
According to the general practitioner, construction workers face the challenge of managing a stressful routine: they wake up early, sometimes eat inadequately, arrive home late and tired, and are not in the mood for simple physical activity that could provide them with restful sleep and well-being in everyday life.
“On weekends, when meeting friends, addictions such as alcoholism and smoking can occur, compulsive behaviors that in turn also occur as a reaction to stress and anxious-depressive symptoms. All of this can be treated, hence the importance of also looking at mental health and changing habits”, he continues.
Recommendations
The Doctor. Jardim notes that workers must be encouraged to eat healthy. A company that does not offer meals should, for example, provide refrigeration for those who want to bring a salad from home.
Another precaution is to observe the provisions of Regulatory Standard (NR) 24, which deals with hygiene conditions and availability of drinking water, in relation to the provision of filtered water on construction sites. “Abundant hydration is very important in construction, therefore, in addition to easy access to water, workers must also be provided with close access to bathrooms for urination,” he recommends.
Supervisors, engineers and safety technicians must include the habit of observing the behavior of workers, identifying, welcoming and guiding those who show symptoms of mental disorders for treatment. “The occupational physician could also include, in site observations and periodic examinations, the practice of identifying these disorders and asking the patient about how they feel at work and in their family and friends environment.”
“Recommendations for workers include taking better care of their diet, including salads and proteins at meals and avoiding snacks in bars; do not stop meeting friends, but limit beer consumption to a minimum and stop smoking; do physical activity at home or go for walks on the weekends; hydrate yourself, and seek help if you have symptoms related to physical or mental health”, highlights Dr. Jardim, remembering that Seconci-SP has a clinical team that can contribute greatly to the health of workers and their families.
