Hardwood Floors February/March 2024

HEALTH & SAFETY FOCUS

CREATING A FOUNDATION OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS THE BALANCING ACT: FOR FLOORING PROFESSIONALS

In the world of flooring professionals, the job’s demands extend far beyond the meticulous installation of flooring products, including managing the chain of custody from the forest to the floor. Achieving personal and professional success requires the development of a robust foundation of personal, physical, and mental well-being. Flooring professionals navigate a unique terrain that presents specific mental and physical challenges. I will delve into managing the physical and mental strains inherent in this profession.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS The flooring industry often involves working with tight deadlines, meeting client expectations, and working with intricate projects. Maintaining mental and physical health is paramount in creating a workable foundation. Flooring professionals need to establish regular breaks in their workday to refresh their minds and bodies. Embracing mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or short meditation can be invaluable for managing stress during hectic workdays. 66 hardwood floors hardwoodfloorsmag.com

ANXIETY MANAGEMENT Anxiety can be a constant companion in all flooring professions. To manage anxiety effectively, I recommend setting realistic goals, breaking down large projects into smaller tasks, and celebrating achieving milestones once those goals are achieved. Open communication with your clients about their project timelines and expectations can help alleviate both mental and physical stress. I further suggest maintaining open and honest communications with your co-workers.

PHYSICAL STRAINS AND PAINS The physical demands of working in the flooring industry are undeniable. Constant kneeling, bending, and lifting can take a toll on the body. We must learn to prioritize physical economics in the workplace. Wearing quality safety equipment also can reduce the impact on the joints of the body significantly. Maintaining a program of regular stretching exercises before and after work is a must to help prevent muscle and joint injuries.