HSE hopes to build knowledge over work place stress

This post has already been read 599 times!

In the hustle and bustle of the construction site, amidst the clang of hammers and the roar of machinery, mental health is not often a topic at the forefront of discussion. Yet, it’s a vital aspect that deserves attention in the construction industry to combat work-related stress and promote good mental health by joining Great Britain’s workplace regulator campaign.

The nature of the work, characterized by high-pressure deadlines, physical exertion, and often isolating environments, can take a toll on the mental well-being of workers the Working Minds campaign, set up by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), welcomes six new partners in the construction industry to help reach trades and offer free support.

March sees the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA), the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC), the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) commit to the campaign.

Working Minds helps employers prevent stress and support good mental health, providing free online learning to show how to make it part of routine working life and culture. The new bitesize tool typically takes no more than an hour to complete and covers what the law requires of employers and what’s needed to do to be compliant.

Users will walk through Working Minds’ five simple steps based on risk assessment. They are to Reach out and have conversations, Recognise the signs and causes of stress, Respond to any risks you’ve identified, Reflect on actions you’ve agreed and taken, and make it Routine. It needs to become the norm to talk about stress and how people are feeling and coping on site.

Construction workers face unique challenges that can contribute to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Long hours, irregular schedules, and the physical demands of the job can lead to fatigue and burnout. Additionally, the transient nature of employment in the industry can create feelings of instability and insecurity.

Unfortunately, mental health concerns are often overlooked or stigmatized in the construction sector. There’s a prevailing mindset that emphasizes toughness and resilience, which can discourage workers from seeking help when they’re struggling. As a result, mental health issues may go unnoticed and untreated, leading to further deterioration of well-being.

However, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of addressing mental health in the construction industry. Employers, unions, and organizations are implementing initiatives to promote mental wellness and support their workers. These efforts include providing access to counseling services, offering education and training on mental health awareness, and fostering a culture of open communication where workers feel comfortable discussing their concerns.

Moreover, promoting a healthy work-life balance and implementing strategies to manage stress can help mitigate the impact of the demanding nature of construction work on mental health. Encouraging regular breaks, providing resources for coping mechanisms, and fostering a supportive work environment are crucial steps in prioritizing the well-being of construction workers.

Furthermore, technology plays a significant role in improving mental health support in the construction industry. Mobile apps and online platforms offer accessible resources for mental wellness, including meditation exercises, stress management techniques, and mental health assessments. Incorporating these tools into workplace wellness programs can empower workers to take proactive steps towards maintaining their mental well-being.

Ultimately, addressing mental health in the construction industry requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders. By promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and providing support services, we can create a workplace culture that values and prioritizes mental wellness. Together, we can build not only structures but also stronger, healthier communities within the construction industry.

Liz Goodwill, head of work-related stress and mental health policy at HSE, commented saying that: “We know that running a business in construction can be stressful with long hours, juggling intense workloads.

“We are delighted the Working Minds campaign is welcoming even more partners and they will no doubt help us in our efforts to raise awareness of ways employers across Britain’s construction trades can help prevent and reduce work-related stress.

“The law requires all employers – whether you’re a demolition firm or scaffolding business – to carry out a stress risk assessment and act upon the findings. The online learning shares all the tools you need to get started in one place, and you can come back as many times as you like.”

According to Deloitte , the total annual cost of poor mental health has increased by 25% since 2019, costing UK employers up to £56 billion a year.