Sigh. I'm so tired of people making assumptions about other people they don't actually know. My brother doesn't work at "killer speeds" - he's done all kinds of work and still has all his fingers and toes, hasn't electrocuted himself or fallen off a roof, etc. He's careful, probably at least in part because he usually works alone. His body is in no worse shape than anyone who's done a lot of physical labor, probably better because he keeps himself fit, and we're both nearing retirement age.
My dad's approach to helping my brother was a mismatch at best.
A non-construction work example: A housemate and I went grocery shopping together once. She's what I'd call a recreational shopper - likes to wander, chat with everyone, takes a l-o-n-g time. I have my list, cross things off as I go, and get out the door. Shopping together was a mistake - I felt like it was taking forever and she didn't appreciate me rushing her along. Nothing wrong with either method, but we didn't grocery shop together again.
My dad did fine work as an electrician, but his approach was ingrained after working 40+ years in union shops. My brother's approach is still safe but completely different because he's self-employed and making his own decisions about how he gets his work done.
