Get involved: Tradies National Health Month with Steel Blue and the APA
Did you know August is Tradies National Health Month (TNHM)?
Tradies National Health Month, an initiative from the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), is in its 11th year in 2023. It’s a timely reminder to look after your health, check in with your mates and take steps to work more safely every time you lace up your tradie boots.
Why Tradies National Health Month matters
Tradies National Health Month promotes well-being among Australia’s hardworking women and men. With demand for tradies booming in 2023, workplace injury rates are climbing, and there’s more pressure on mental health and work-life balance.
Tradies face many health challenges
The latest ABS data shows that machinery operators, labourers and trade workers have some of the highest work-related injury rates in the country. With 89,500 injuries recorded among technicians and trade workers in the 2021-22 financial year, it’s clear we have our work cut out to reduce preventable harm.
Unfortunately, some challenges are invisible
On top of physical injury risks, stress and mental health issues are rife among tradies. Steel Blue and Beyond Blue surveyed 900 people for TNHM last year and found:
- 1 in 3 tradies experienced high or very high psychological distress levels in the past 30 days
- 54% of people reported experiencing feelings of hopelessness
- 51% experienced extreme sadness
- 48% reported feeling worthless
With skilled worker shortages making headlines nationwide, tradies are feeling even more pressure. We must look after our mates and ensure everyone has the support they need.
Boot the Blues 2023
Steel Blue has joined forces with Beyond Blue and a host of special guests to present our Boot the Blues 2023 webinar for Tradies National Health Month.
The webinar explores the important topic of a tradies approach to promoting mateship on and offsite and includes practical tips to help you be at your best and support others.
Steel Blue’s enduring commitment to tradie health and safety
As Australia’s leading work boot manufacturer, we believe you need to be your best self to do your best work. Steel Blue strives to reduce harm and promote healthy work through our safety-focused work boots, partnership with the APA, and active support for Beyond Blue mental health initiatives.
Health and well-being tips for Tradies National Health Month
Here are a few things you can do during TNHM to look after yourself and your mates:
- Watch for signs of fatigue, strain and burn-out
- Start conversations about mental health
- Make yourself available to talk
- Donate to a charity that supports tradie health
- Be proactive and productive in minimising workplace hazards
- Encourage workmates to take breaks if they’re not feeling 100%
- Check PPE (including work boots) to reduce physical injury risks
Look after yourself this month – and every month. Search “Tradies National Health Month” online or visit the APA for more ways to look after your mental health, your mates, and your body.
How you can get the best work boots and support Beyond Blue mental health services
A good pair of tradie boots reduces your risk of strains, slips and falls. The best work boots also give you ways to look after your mental health. Steel Blue’s partnership with Beyond Blue means $10 from every pair of Blue Boots sold goes directly to supporting Beyond Blue’s 24/7 Support Service.
