Floor finishers generally work indoors in small teams. The majority of these tradespeople are employed in the construction industry. A number of positions exist in the retail trade; however, a large number are self-employed and work as sub-contractors. Typically, floor finishers work a 40-hour week with some overtime required to meet construction deadlines.
Conditions can be dusty and because the work requires a great deal of kneeling, twisting and lifting of heavy carpets and furniture, there is some risk of knee and back injury. Risks can be significantly reduced through the use of correct lifting techniques.

Depending on the specific task or specialist area, floor finishers will use a variety of tools and technologies, such as sanders, abraders, staplers, hammers, knives, knee kickers, seaming cutters, seam irons, wall trimmers, safety glasses, knee pads and hammer tackers.