A study commissioned by Electrical Contractors Insurance Services (ECIS) has found one in five heating and ventilation engineers work 51-55 hours a week while one in five plumbers work a 46-50 hour week.

ECIS has linked the long hours to the number of engineers and plumbers suffering fatigue and stress rising to a third in the past year, and a third of both trades have considered leaving their profession. 

The study found 25% of heating and ventilation engineers worked more in 2013 than in 2012, compared to 19% of plumbers, and both trades have experienced more business pressures.

Phil Scarrett, sales and marketing director for ECIS said: “It looks like business is booming for heating and ventilation engineers, as well as plumbers. These trades continue to be in high demand, with many working more than they were a year or so ago. The government’s initiatives to create new homes will only bring more work to this sector. However, it’s worrying to see that a third of heating and ventilation workers have suffered from stress and fatigue over the last 12 months and that many skilled people have considered leaving their profession.

“With a working week typically exceeding 46 hours including weekends and evenings, it’s easy to see how health and well-being can take a back seat. However, it’s important to find time to step back and take stock. Health assessments are an excellent way to understand and improve your health as they provide a powerful incentive to take positive action, either to seek treatment or to make changes to the way you live.”