Suicide Prevention Begins with Awareness

The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates of any occupation, making mental health an increasingly important workplace safety issue.

Suicide affects workers, families, employers, and communities, but safety experts stress that prevention is possible with awareness, education, and early intervention.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration says everyone in the construction industry has a role to play in preventing suicide.

Ahead of Construction Suicide Prevention Week (Sept. 14 through Sept. 18), the agency is reminding employers how they can help employees.

Action Items

OSHA encourages workers and employers to be aware of warning signs, pay attention to changes in behavior, reach out to coworkers who may be struggling, take action during a crisis, and connect people with available resources.

Mental health challenges can be difficult to discuss in the workplace, but experts say simple conversations can make a difference.

OSHA advises workers who are concerned about a colleague to speak with them privately, listen without judgment, and encourage them to seek support through an employee assistance program, human resources department, or mental health professional.

Mental health challenges can be difficult to discuss in the workplace, but simple conversations can make a difference.

Employers can also play a key role by incorporating mental health into workplace safety programs, training supervisors to recognize signs of distress, and fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable asking for help.

Workplace safety today extends beyond physical hazards and includes employees’ mental and emotional well-being.

If a worker appears to be in immediate danger, OSHA recommends staying with the individual and seeking help right away. Support is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which can be reached by calling or texting 988.