One in four workers don’t take a break all day

One in four people don’t take a break at work and are seriously putting their health at risk, claims a new survey.

One in four people don’t take a break at work and are seriously putting their health at risk, claims a new survey.
New research from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) shows a quarter of workers in the UK regularly work right through the day without taking a break.
Physiotherapists have warned that poor work habits, such as not taking sufficient breaks, working in the same position for extended periods, going to work when ill or stressed and not taking enough exercise pose serious risks to health which can also cause huge costs for employers.
The survey by the CSP shows that over a third (36%) of staff regularly work through their lunch break and nearly a quarter (25%) take no lunch break at all.
Half of those who work through their breaks do so because they have too much work to do, while almost a third say it is because there are too few staff to cover the workload.
The CSP launches its Fit for Work campaign today and warns workers are increasing their risk of chronic musculoskeletal disorders such as on-going back pain, obesity, cancer, depression, heart disease, diabetes type 2 and stroke through poor working practices.
More than four of 10 with physical problems caused by work feel these problems are made worse because they are also experiencing work-related stress.
Sickness absence is costing employers and society over £35billion per year in reduced performance and productivity, sick pay and benefits.
Phil Gray, chief executive of the CSP, said: ”Physiotherapists are concerned that overworking and not taking breaks is actually costing employers and their staff.  Employees pay the price with their health and there is a cost to employers in reduced productivity and performance.
”Work is good for us and can contribute to physical and mental well-being – but not when overworking means people don’t have the time or energy to look after their own health or when staff are at work but are not fit for work.
”With advice and support from physiotherapists and other occupational health experts, employers can create healthier work environments and benefit not only society but also their profit margin.’
 

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