Farming is the most overworked industry

FARMERS are the hardest workers in the UK, a new survey has revealed.
Farmers, along with those in the fishing and forestry industries, work an average of 42 hours a week, which is 32.13 percent more than the average worker, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics.
The figures, which were analysed by legal experts Lawhive, show mining and energy workers come in second, working 37.4 hours on average per week, followed by construction workers on 36.5 hours per week.
Daniel McAfee, head of legal operations at Lawhive, said, “The figures show farmers and agricultural workers power through more than 10 extra hours each week compared to staff in hotels and restaurants.
“Workers stuck in these high-hour sectors need to know their rights regarding breaks, holidays, and overtime pay. The law provides protection, but you need to understand what you’re entitled to.”
Mr McAfee added it was in everyone’s interest to ensure people are not overworked.
“Employers must track staff wellbeing and pay fairly for extra hours worked, as long working hours can lead to stress and burnout, which, as a result, can impact productivity,” he said.
“This matters more than ever as workers become more familiar with their rights and seek a better work-life balance.”
“Monitoring wellbeing is also essential to keep employees safe and prevent workplace accidents as stress can lead to more errors, particularly in roles where there are more hazards present, like agriculture, where workers use heavy machinery.
“However, jobs with shorter hours bring completely different problems, like securing enough shifts to pay the bills. This hits restaurant and hotel workers hardest, especially with zero-hour contracts being so common in those industries.”

To read more.. Subscribe to current edition

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere