Field workers are the lifeblood of industries that drive our economy and sustain our way of life - construction, oil and gas, mining, and countless others. Their work is essential, demanding, and often takes place in remote and rugged environments. Yet, despite their indispensable role, they face challenges that seriously undermine not just their well-being, but also their productivity and job satisfaction.
Employers, let’s consider these challenges as more than operational hurdles. They’re opportunities.
By addressing pain points of field work, businesses can boost efficiency, reduce turnover, and prioritize the health and safety of their workforce. Plus, these efforts are likely to set companies apart as employers of choice.
The transient nature of field work is one of its greatest challenges, sending workers out where buildings and utilities may not exist. But basic human needs, like using the restroom and washing away grime or harmful residue, are mainstays no matter where a company sends its employees. It’s not uncommon for workers to endure unserviced porta potties or resort to nearby bushes for restroom breaks. In cases where workers are handling hazardous materials, a lack of proper facilities also makes it impossible to wash away harmful substances, increasing the risk of chemical burns, skin irritation, or long-term health issues.
Employers must also contend with facility needs for the increasing number of women in blue collar jobs, especially construction. That means accommodating them with female restrooms, but it also mandates private, clean spaces for pumping breastmilk if necessary.
Let’s consider a few common settings for field workers: A West Virginia mining operation during frigid winters. A remote construction site during a hot Texas summer. The far end of a tarmac during a lightning storm. Without proper shelter, field workers can be dangerously exposed to the elements.
Breakroom facilities that can be loaded and transported from site to site offer workers respite and shelter from the elements.
Field workers often face extensive commutes to their remote worksites, potentially (unpaid) hours both ways. This eats into workers’ personal time, but it also adds to stress and fatigue. It’s a common problem, especially within the oil and gas industry, where over 40% of work-related deaths are caused by motor vehicle crashes. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has created resources specifically for oil and gas companies and employees around this subject.
Field workers are often thrown into their role with minimal training or mentorship. This can leave them unprepared for the demands of handling specialized equipment, understanding safety protocols, or seeing any potential for career growth. With the absence of dedicated spaces for storing safety gear or conducting training sessions, field workers are far from set up for success in their work.
Portable classrooms are a growing solution for companies that prioritize jobsite safety training.
By investing in solutions like hygienic facilities, climate-controlled shelters, transportation support, and increased safety measures, employers can reap the rewards of a safer, more productive and loyal workforce.
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