Chronic pain affects nearly 20% of construction workers, CPWR data shows

Silver Spring, MD — Chronic pain affects nearly 20% of construction workers according to new data from CPWR – the Center for Construction Research and Training. In 2023, 11% of construction workers reported experiencing pain every day and 9% had pain most days over a recent three-month period. Among workers who experienced pain, 11.8% reported being in a lot of pain and 51% had a little.

according to Safety+Health Magazine.

Pain and opioid concerns

Pain is associated with opioid use among construction workers and is of great concern due to the disproportionately high overdose death rate in the industry, CPWR states in its August Data Bulletin. CPWR provides materials and resources intended to help prevent injuries and exposures that can lead to chronic illnesses.

Anxiety reports

33% of construction workers in 2024 reported feeling anxious monthly and 9.5% said daily.

Musculoskeletal disorder trends

The number of days away from work as a result of a musculoskeletal disorder decreased 29% in the private construction industry, to 29,900 cases in 2023-2024 from 42,100 cases in 2011-2012. Recognizing and addressing chronic conditions is key to maintaining a safe, healthy workforce and supporting construction workers’ overall well-being, CPWR states.

according to Safety+Health Magazine.