A poll compiled by the construction trade body found that 23 per cent of workers have considered these options during the past 12 months.

The study also suggested that many Britons want physical activity and time spent outdoors to form part of their working day - two things which construction roles can provide.

Some 13 per cent of the respondents to the survey said they are keen to become more physically active in their jobs, and 20 per cent said they would like the opportunity to spend more hours outdoors.

A further 13 per cent of the people questioned said they would like to avoid sitting in an office for the whole working day, with 22 per cent keen to secure flexible working options by gaining more control over their time.

Responding to the findings, FMB member Chris Payne said it appears that day-to-day routines might often prove frustrating to office workers.

Mr Payne, who is also a TV builder, added: “This could be part of the reason why we feel such warmth towards careers with a bit of freedom, variety and being your own boss.”

Among its other key findings, the FMB report said the desire to work outdoors is particularly strong in Brighton, with 30 per cent of employees there keen to spend more time in the open air.

Meanwhile, 20 per cent of Liverpool workers seek more physical activity in their jobs, and 24 per cent of those in the Scottish city of Glasgow like the idea of becoming their own boss.

One of the study’s slightly quirkier findings revealed that the UK’s builders have managed to enter the top 10 chart of the country’s ‘sexiest’ professions.

The federation said builders finished above graphic designers, bankers and chief executives in the light-hearted list.