Plumbing may seem like straightforward work, but it can be dangerous, especially if proper safety protocols are not followed. There are several hazards that plumbers face every day. While insurance may cover some of the damages, ideally you want to avoid these dangers altogether by taking proactive safety measures. However, first, you need to understand the dangers so you can make informed decisions on how to mitigate the risks.
Physical Hazards
The profession of plumbing is a physically demanding job, where the plumber has to be on his feet for several hours a day. They may also need to lift heavy objects and bend into tight spaces under the sink or narrow crawl spaces. The physical strain of the job can lead to various types of injuries, including back and neck injuries.
If the plumber engages in repetitive movements of any kind, they can also suffer from joint issues or musculoskeletal disorders. It is not uncommon for plumbers to suffer from chronic back pain. Some may even develop conditions such as arthritis or tendonitis. If a plumber develops such conditions, they may need to rest or reduce their workload.
Plumbers are also at risk of suffering injury from flying particles, such as debris, metal shavings, or splinters. This danger is most common when cutting pipes, drilling, or handling materials. In some locations, the plumbers may also be exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Another risk in plumbing is accidents can lead to serious injuries. As plumbers often work with water, they are at higher risk of suffering a slip-and-fall accident due to slippery surfaces. A single fall could be enough to cause serious injuries, such as fractures, sprains, or even head trauma, which could require extensive recovery time. In some plumbing jobs, the plumbers may be working at elevated heights. A fall from height could result in catastrophic injuries.
Chemical Exposure
One of the hazards associated with plumbing is exposure to toxic gasses and carcinogenic materials. As plumbers often work with substances like solvents and drain cleaners, they are at risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals. Some of these products may also release fumes which are dangerous to health if inhaled. The short-term symptoms of chemical exploration include headaches, dizziness, and eye irritation. However, the higher risk is when the plumber is exposed to these chemicals over the long term, which can lead to chronic respiratory issues, skin conditions, and, in severe cases, even cancer.
The plumbers are also at risk of coming in contact with contaminated materials and wastewater. As the plumbers are at higher risk of exposure to sewage, they can contract diseases such as hepatitis or leptospirosis. Another hazard associated with plumbing is exposure to mold and mildew, which often grow in dark, damp, and poorly ventilated areas. Prolonged exposure to mold and mildew can result in respiratory issues, allergies, and other types of conditions.
Electrical Risks
Water and electricity don’t go well together. Unfortunately, plumbers are exposed to this dangerous combination. Whether it is electrical wiring or appliances, if water comes in contact with any electrical equipment or component, there is a risk of electrocution and burns. The risk increases significantly if there are live wires. If a plumber makes a wrong judgment and cuts the wrong electricity wire or a gas line, they can be electrocuted or burned. In some cases, such accidents can even cause an explosion resulting in serious injuries and property damage.
Emotional Challenges
An often overlooked challenge for plumbers is the mental and emotional struggles. Issues that require plumbing service are often urgent or critical. The plumber is responsible for finding quick solutions to prevent major damage. This stress is even worse for emergency plumbing services, such as when water overflows or bursts pipes. Any plumbing issue that cannot wait is an emergency, and the plumber is under pressure to fix the problem. The plumber may have to accommodate the emergency service request on holidays, weekends, and after regular business hours.
The working hours for plumbers can also vary, adding to the overall stress of the job. During peak season, the plumbers might have to handle an increased workload. When the market is slow, the plumbers might feel stressed that they are not getting enough work. This is more of an issue for independent plumbers.
Stress is dangerous for mental health, and if not addressed on time, they can develop into depression, anxiety, and other types of psychological conditions. Emotional challenges in plumbing often slip under the radar because, unlike physical injuries, they don’t always show up in obvious ways. If a plumber gets a cut or strain on the job, the injury is clear, and they can go straight for treatment. But with mental health issues like stress, anxiety, or burnout, the signs are much harder to see. These feelings can vary a lot from one person to another, making them difficult to pinpoint or validate. There’s no straightforward test for stress or burnout, so these struggles can easily go unnoticed.
How Can These Dangers Be Mitigated
The good news is that plumbers take steps to minimize the risks of their occupation. A local plumbing specialist knows the importance of safety measures and follow industry standards to protect themselves and others on the job. A key component of preventing physical injuries is to follow standard safety procedures. Whether it’s routine maintenance or a plumbing emergency, following proper safety protocol is vital to prevent accidents. Using protective gear is also important. For example, when working with potentially hazardous chemicals, the plumber can wear gloves and a mask to minimize the risk of exposure. Similarly, using safety goggles can help protect the eyes from flying particles and harmful splashes.
For the protection of their mental health, plumbers can ensure they follow a routine or schedule that doesn’t impact their sleep and they get enough rest. They also need to maintain a stable work-life balance, where they get to spend enough time engaging in activities outside their work. This helps provide a mental break from the demands of the profession.
