Blue collar / white collar
\ blu ˈkɑlər \ waɪt ˈkɑlər \
A distinction of different types of workforce commonly used as a ratings factor in the United States and Canada.
Blue collar work generally refers to manual labo(u)r, while white collar work refers to non-manual or office-based labo(u)r. The terms originated from the typical clothing worn in these roles- denim or other blue shirts for manual workers, and white shirts for office workers.
This classification is often used in longevity model(l)ing and pension analysis, as it correlates with differences in life expectancy:
Blue collar workers tend to have shorter lifespans, on average. White collar workers tend to have longer lifespans, reflecting differences in working conditions, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare.
Alternative terminology used to describe these groups is “manual” and "non-manual" / “officer”.