WORKPLACE HEALTH RISKS: TRADES RANK UNHEALTHIEST, HEALTH WORKERS LEAD

New research shows how workplace culture, physical demands and lifestyle habits can shape long-term health risks across different careers.

A new analysis of Australian occupations has revealed stark differences in lifestyle-related health risks, with some industries significantly more vulnerable to smoking, poor diet, low physical activity and risky alcohol consumption than others.

The findings, from iSelect, highlight how workplace environments and daily routines can influence health behaviours, ultimately shaping long-term wellbeing outcomes.

Trades and labour roles rank among the unhealthiest

According to the data, Mobile Plant Operators recorded the highest overall Health Behaviours and Lifestyle Risk score at 87.94 out of 100. The ranking reflects very low levels of physical activity, high smoking rates and elevated alcohol risk.

While nearly half of workers in the role met fruit consumption guidelines, none met recommended vegetable intake targets, underscoring the impact of limited access to healthy food options in some work environments.

Construction Trades Workers ranked second with a score of 78.23, driven by high smoking prevalence, increased alcohol consumption and minimal vegetable intake.

Time pressures, physically demanding work and entrenched site culture are believed to reinforce unhealthy habits.

Automotive and Engineering Trades Workers completed the top three unhealthiest occupations. Their score of 76.05 was largely influenced by low physical activity levels and poor dietary patterns, alongside relatively high alcohol consumption.

Other high-risk roles included machine operators, construction and mining labourers, storepersons and farm or forestry workers, all of whom recorded elevated lifestyle risk scores linked to similar behavioural patterns.

Health and education careers lead

At the opposite end of the spectrum, health professionals had the lowest lifestyle risk score, at 22.58. The result reflects extremely low smoking rates, minimal alcohol risk, and comparatively higher fruit consumption, likely influenced by greater awareness of health and wellbeing.

Education professionals ranked second healthiest with a score of 26.38. Workers in the sector recorded the lowest smoking rate overall and similarly low alcohol risk, suggesting workplace culture and knowledge around wellbeing may play a protective role.

Farmers and farm managers placed third, largely due to high levels of physical activity despite moderate smoking and alcohol consumption rates.

Other professions associated with healthier lifestyle behaviours included legal and welfare professionals, sports and personal service workers, office managers and arts and media professionals.

Why workplace culture matters

Health experts say these findings reinforce the importance of addressing lifestyle risks across industries, particularly those with higher exposure to physical strain, shift work, or limited access to healthy choices.

Andres Gutierrez, General Manager, Health at iSelect, said both individuals and employers have a role to play in improving long-term outcomes.

“To protect long-term health, there are practical steps workers can take, such as maintaining regular physical activity, limiting smoking and alcohol consumption, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are all proven to support wellbeing.

"Employers can also play a role by providing flexible schedules, reducing unnecessary night or shift work, and creating safer, more supportive work environments. While some industries are leading the way, there is still a significant opportunity to improve health outcomes across many high-risk occupations.”

He added that access to healthcare remains a crucial factor.

“No matter your career, access to health insurance is critical, helping workers cover medical care, manage injuries and access preventative support. Having reliable health coverage provides peace of mind and allows workers to focus on maintaining good long-term health.”

Full findings of the study can be found here.