Dehydration survey reveals health risks for construction workers

Nearly two-thirds of construction workers are at risk of dehydration, according to a new survey from Construction Sport. 

The charity surveyed 1,000 UK construction workers and found that 64.2% of respondents drink less than 2 litres of water every day, while more than a quarter (26%) drink less than 1 litre.

The European Food Safety Authority recommends a water intake of 2.5 litres per day for men and 2 litres for women.

Failing to drink enough water can lead to dehydration, which can impact both physical and mental health.

In response to its findings, Construction Sport has launched the Mental Health Hydrated awareness campaign, backed by the Considerate Constructors Scheme, which will include site visits, branded water drop-offs and advice on keeping hydrated in the workplace.

Steve Kerslake, founder of Construction Sport, said: “Studies prove that drinking plain water is associated with decreased risk of depression and anxiety, and we have heard of several incidents of workers fainting or collapsing on site due to lack of hydration – putting both themselves and workmates at risk.

“We hope this campaign will remind and encourage those working in construction to make hydration an important part of their daily routine.”

Jeff Lewis, head of growth at the Considerate Constructors Scheme, added: "We’re proud to support the Mental Health Hydrated campaign to bring wider awareness to all construction sites of the need to prioritise hydration to ensure a safer, healthier workforce. 

“Our Considerate Code of Practice promotes supporting safe working, mental and physical wellbeing at work – hydration is a crucial and often overlooked part of this.”