BackManual work – for whom?
Physical work can be varied in nature and performed in a variety of positions. It requires the worker to use his or her body and physical strength. Who is manual work for? Where to look for jobs as a manual worker? What is light and heavy manual work?
Types of work: physical work and mental work
Work can have different facets. Depending on the nature of the tasks performed, we can distinguish between two main types of work: physical work and mental work. Each involves different demands, challenges or rewards. What exactly do these two types of work consist of?
- Physical work – as the name suggests, it mainly involves muscular effort and the performance of specific, often repetitive tasks. Those who work physically are involved in tasks that require motor skills, endurance and good coordination.
- mental work – involves the use of intellectual abilities and requires a high degree of concentration, creativity and problem-solving skills. People in mental work are involved in analysis, planning and management.
Main types of manual work
Main types of physical work:
- work at heights,
- welding work,
- work with hazardous substances,
- construction work,
- production and industrial work,
- agricultural work
- transport and logistical work,
- renovation and finishing work,
- work in services,
- mining work.
Examples of jobs involving physical work
Physical work can apply to a wide range of occupations where physical exertion and stamina are required of workers. The following are examples of jobs involving physical work:
- Warehouse worker / stockist: packer, forklift operator, order picker
- Production worker: CNC machine operator, quality checker, production line operator
- Waiter, cook, barman, kitchen assistant, confectioner, cafeteria worker
- Cleaner, refuse collector, cleaning lady
- Supply assistant: courier
- Shop assistant: cashier/shop assistant
- Construction worker: plumber, bricklayer, electrician, fitter, painter – filler, tinsmith, roofer.
Earnings in manual work
Employment conditions for manual labour in Poland are improving. Often employees are offered various benefits such as private medical care, a sports card, insurance or cash allowances. The level of earnings varies and depends mainly on the type of job position. Most often, however, earnings can be expected from PLN 4,300 to as much as PLN 9,500 gross. If the employee has some special qualifications or specialised courses, he or she can certainly count on earnings from a higher ceiling.
What is light physical work and what is heavy physical work?
According to the definition of very heavy physical work, it refers to activities involving the use of tools weighing more than 3 kg, which means that the worker regularly has to engage physical strength to operate heavy equipment. In heavy physical work, strength is also needed to lift and carry objects weighing more than 40 kg, which puts a lot of strain on the body.
Heavy physical work is also characterised by the use of tools such as shovels, spades, shovels and hoes, which require considerable strength, especially for tasks such as excavation or earth moving. In addition, some physical work, although considered to be moderately heavy, is performed in conditions that reduce the comfort of the worker, for example in a difficult or awkward body position. Prolonged performance of such activities can lead to overloading of the body.
With this type of work, there are contraindications to heavy physical work. It is not advisable if the doctor so decides. The doctor decides whether or not you are fit for this type of work. It is worth following these recommendations. Often it is serious degeneration of the spine, heart disease or pregnancy in women. It is worth remembering that health is the most important thing.
Who is manual work for?
Manual work is for anyone with good physical fitness. People who appreciate activity and are not afraid of exertion are most suitable for this type of work. It is important to be aware of the demands that physical work entails.
Many workers in this industry have to cope with a wide variety of tasks, often requiring coordination and teamwork skills. Manual workers are exposed to prolonged strain, which can lead to injury, so it is important to use appropriate working techniques and to take care of health and safety.
It is important to remember that physical work for women also exists. Of course, it has to be lighter than for men, but still many women do physical work. Lifting standards are set out in the Decree of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy and include:
Women
- Permanent work: 12 kg
- Casual work: 20 kg
Pregnant women:
- permanent work: 3 kg
- casual work: 3 kg
Nursing women:
- permanent work: 6 kg
- casual work: 10 kg
Men:
- permanent work: 30 kg
- casual work: 50 kg
Manual work can be a good option for both young and old people. It can be a transitional job, a temporary job, a supplementary job or for people who want to change their direction. Some people are keen to start with manual work to gain their first experience.
Advantages of manual work
Physical work can have many benefits:
- improves physical fitness,
- improves well-being,
- variety of tasks,
- opportunity for professional development,
- reduces stress levels,
- improves quality of sleep,
- high job availability,
- working in a dynamic environment,
- job satisfaction.
Manual work in Poland – physical work offers
Manual work in Poland is in high demand, both among domestic workers and foreigners. The economy continues to grow, which increases the demand for manual workers. On the market there are various offers
Are you looking for stable employment?
We offer legal physical work throughout Poland! As an employment agency we have a wide base of offers, tailored to your skills and needs. We provide employment with transparent conditions and a guarantee of legality. Whether you have experience or are just starting out, with us you will find the right physical work offer. Join our team and gain job security!
Manual work is not only a daily effort, but also a chance to develop and acquire new skills. For many people, manual work is associated with hard work, but also with great satisfaction from seeing the results of their actions and the opportunity to work in a team. Over time, experience in manual work can prove to be a valuable asset that opens doors to better positions or new career challenges.
Although manual work can be demanding, under the right conditions and with good workplace support, it can offer stable employment and a sense of fulfilment. This is why it is worth appreciating its value and considering it as an attractive career option.
Check also: Inspirational quotes about work
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