15/05/2024
82% of Construction Workers suffer from Mental Health Issues at Work!
That's according to studies carried out by the Institute of Government & Public Policy.
Does it shock you to learn that not only the person on your right but also your left, could be struggling if it isn't already you?
As part of we wanted to share our practices with our audience, industry and trade, to help increase monitoring, prevention and preparation for mental health-related illness in the workplace.
So what do Lawson Group do? - I hear you ask...
1. 🤝 Ask your colleagues how they are - by opening up the conversation, the availability to listen and discuss any issues is imperative to understanding what is going on with your team. Allowing some time to 'chat' will be the most successful and conducive method to helping someone through what they are experiencing. Using this knowledge can create or prompt change in the workplace, to produce a healthier and safer working environment for all.
2. 👩⚕️ Annual Occupational Health Visits - These are carried out by an independent practitioner in a separate space within our head office. This allows staff to confidentially confide in a healthcare professional about any health concerns they may have in the workplace, and their well-being and gain results from routine health checks as a preventative measure.
3. 🆘 Registered Charities - We subscribe to the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity via the National Federation of Demolition Contractors, we find that having an independent helpline which is always available, helps individuals have the confidence to talk to someone if they need help, inside or outside of the workplace.
4. ⚠ Pay close attention to Risk Assessments and Audits - We all can often take paperwork for granted, and just focus on the 'Pass' mark, but what if we missed something along the way? - creating attention to detail and mentions of risk factors in and around the workplace, can help us take preventative measures in current and future sites.
5. ⛑ Mental Health First Aiders - We have a number of first aiders to assist with our staff on-site and in our offices. These individuals have undertaken training to help look out for signs of distress, panic, anxiety and anything out of character in our staff.
Could we do more? - We could always do more, but for now, the issue that exists needs to be highlighted, and released from any social stigma and pressures. We don't want our staff to hide such a problematic issue, so we do what we can to help everyone feel safe. 👷♂️
