But what exactly is occupational health?
Occupational health looks at health and wellbeing within the workplace — whether that’s as a police officer, teacher, journalist, or chimney sweep. Every role brings its own physical, psychological, and environmental demands. Occupational health is about understanding those demands and helping people stay fit, safe, and able to do their job effectively.
My interest in chimney sweeps is both professional and personal. My husband was a chimney sweep, and my son has now ‘taken up the brushes’. When your own family is involved, health becomes doubly important. Being the wife and mother of chimney sweeps also brings lived experience – I’ve learned you can never buy white towels, and that Christmas Eve calls about appliances not reaching temperature are very real. Those experiences help me understand the realities of the job beyond textbooks and policies.
It’s essential that chimney sweeps are fit enough to undertake their role safely. Over the coming months, this column will explore health topics relevant to you. Hopefully these insights will be of benefit throughout your sweeping career.
We will look at musculoskeletal issues such as back and joint pain – how to reduce the risk of injury and what to do if pain begins to interfere with work. We will explore respiratory health, including protecting your lungs, ensuring face masks fit correctly – at what stage does a persistent cough need medical attention?
Mental health is another vital area and often overlooked. Many sweeps run their own businesses and face significant pressures. We will consider how mental health affects work and home life too, how to support others, and where to seek professional help.
Hearing protection is another area which doesn’t get enough attention. Hearing loss may seem minor, but it can significantly affect quality of life. Using properly fitted hearing protection is essential, particularly as we move into our 50s and 60s.
If there are specific topics you would like covered or if you’d like to share your own experiences with your fellow sweeps, please get in touch.
Finally, a reminder about general health. You can contact your GP for a Well Person Check. The free NHS Health Check (for ages 40–74) assesses your risk of heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and stroke. Early detection makes a real difference.
I’ll have a stand at the Sweep Stuff show this year and am offering blood pressure and cholesterol checks. You can book a slot using the QR code and the booking form or get details from reception and come and see me at the show. I look forward to seeing you there.
Take care and stay well
Nicky Lavin
B Med sci (hons)
Specialist Practitioner Occupational Health
To register your interest in having a health check at the show please fill the form in below:
