While safety on construction sites is paramount, the inherent risks associated with working at heights, with heavy machinery and exposed electrical wires can lead to other types of unforeseen emergencies. Among these is sudden, cardiac arrest, a silent threat that can strike swiftly and have devastating consequences, writes John Ridgeway.
While there is a lack of specific data on construction site cardiac arrests, research points towards construction workers being at a higher risk of experiencing this sudden medical emergency, compared to the general population. Construction work is physically demanding, often involving lifting heavy objects, climbing and constant movement. This exertion can put significant strain on the heart.
A recent study published in the American Heart Association Journal found that strenuous physical activity can increase the risk of cardiac events, particularly for individuals with pre-existing coronary artery disease. An earlier 2020 study in the Journal of Construction Engineering and Management investigated the association between chronic stress and cardiovascular health issues among construction workers. The study found a significant correlation between stress levels and increased blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and cardiac arrest. Read more, just follow the link