Construction safety starts before the first task. Stretching before work helps prevent strains and sprains, supports flexibility and mentally prepares crews for the day. C.D. Smith Construction’s Stretch + Flex program provides a structured 10-minute routine at the start of every jobsite shift to reduce preventable injuries and keep workers ready for the tasks ahead.
Athletes stretch before a game. Musicians warm up before a concert. Pilots follow a checklist before takeoff. So it makes sense that before starting a physically demanding job, construction workers should take a few minutes to stretch and flex, warming up their muscles and preparing their bodies for the day ahead.
In the construction, manufacturing and trades industries, work is physical. Whether lifting, climbing, reaching or standing for long periods, the body is under constant stress. Without proper preparation, this can lead to strains, sprains and other preventable injuries.
"Prevention is key when it comes to safety. This simple step of daily calisthenics is one way to keep the crew in the best shape for the job."
Joe Pausha, Director of Safety, C.D. Smith Construction
At C.D. Smith, a 10-minute Stretch + Flex routine starts every workday. The goal is straightforward: prepare teams physically and mentally for the tasks ahead.
Each session is led on the jobsite and participation is required. It's a small investment of time that pays off in healthier, more focused and injury-free crews.
Warm up your muscles before engaging in physical work. A good stretching program supports flexibility, improves range of motion and reduces the likelihood of injury. The sequence below outlines the Stretch + Flex routine used on C.D. Smith jobsites.
Bend wrist and keep elbow straight. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat each arm.
Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat two times.
Hold for 30 seconds on each side.
Slowly pull forward and down. Hold for 30 seconds.
Keep chin off chest. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat each arm.
Slowly rotate to one side. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat each side.
With knees slightly bent, bend forward with arms hanging. Hold for 30 seconds.
Feet wider than shoulders. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat each side.
Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat each side.
Learn more at cdsmith.com/safety.
A structured warm-up offers clear benefits for crews working in fast-paced, physically demanding environments. Daily stretching: