Quick Energy Isn’t Always Safe Energy
Whether you’re getting ready for an early start or trying to push through the last hours of your shift, it’s easy to reach for an energy drink for that extra boost. While these drinks may seem harmless, overuse can lead to serious health risks, especially for tradespeople doing physically demanding work.
Caffeine is commonly used to increase alertness and boost energy. Coffee remains the most widely consumed caffeinated drink in the world, but energy drinks have been rapidly gaining popularity over the last few decades—often with significantly higher caffeine and stimulant levels.
Energy on the job is important, but so is your health and safety. That’s why the PRST team is sharing four essential tips to fuel up wisely.
Know What You’re Drinking
Not all energy drinks are created equal—be mindful of which one you choose. While some may contain 100-150mg of caffeine, others can pack more than 300mg, before adding extra stimulants (like taurine) which make the effects even stronger and can put more strain on the heart.
Watch for Warning Signs
Heart palpitations, dizziness, and even seizures have been linked to excessive energy drink use. If you’re feeling jittery, anxious, or off balance after consuming one, it’s a red flag that your body may be reacting poorly.
Be Smart About When You Drink Them
Using energy drinks before high-intensity labor or in hot conditions can increase strain on your heart and lead to dehydration or worse. Always consider your workload and environment before consuming high-caffeine beverages.
Don’t Mix and Stack
Be mindful of caffeine from other sources throughout the day, like coffee, soda or supplements. Combining multiple caffeinated products can lead to serious health complications and increase the risk of emergency room visits.
There’s nothing wrong with needing a boost now and then, but as a tradesperson, your body is your most important tool. Know your limits, read the label and pay attention to how your body responds. Choosing safer ways to stay energized, like staying hydrated, eating balanced meals, and getting good sleep, can help you stay strong and safe on the job. Your energy matters, let’s make sure you protect it the right way.
Prioritize safety at all times
Questions or concerns about your safety on the job? Please call your local PRST team. You can also learn more about our safety policies on our Tradesperson Resource Center.
