A new survey of UK tradespeople has revealed the impact that rusted, seized and poorly maintained components are having on productivity across the construction and trade sectors, with nearly 6 in 10 (57%) encountering these issues at least weekly.
The research, commissioned by WD-40®, shows that over half of tradespeople (51%) say stuck or rusted parts are one of the most common causes of delays on site.
Cleaning and preparation work is also a major contributor to inefficiency, with 48% of respondents highlighting it as a regular cause of delays, alongside tools or equipment not working smoothly (46%).
The research also highlights a strong culture of preventative maintenance among tradespeople, with 87% stating they carry out maintenance such as lubricating parts, cleaning equipment, or protecting components either regularly or occasionally.
A spokesperson from WD-40® said: “Time is one of the most valuable resources for tradespeople, and these findings show just how often preventable issues like rusted or seized components are getting in the way of getting jobs done efficiently. Preventative maintenance clearly plays a key role on site, and there is a real opportunity to help tradespeople protect their time, tools and productivity by using the right solution for the task at hand.”
Image: WD-40
