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However, the report also highlighted that construction is an industry that is capable of transformation. Once a reporter of high numbers of serious incidents and fatalities, the industry's progress around health and safety has contributed to a 40% reduction in deaths and injuries in recent years. We can then be hopeful that a consistent focus on mental health can have a similar impact. Thankfully, there is much employers can do to raise and sustain the profile of this issue within their organisations.
1. Produce, implement and promote a mental health plan
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment suggests promoting a culture of openness around mental health. One of the ways in which to do this is through the development and ongoing management of a Mental Health at Work Plan, which can help demonstrate your commitment to supporting workers' mental health.
For information on what to include in your mental health plan, see the HSE's management standards approach workbook Tackling Work-Related Stress and Mind's guide to implementing mental health standards.
2. Encourage staff to complete a Wellness Action Plan (WAP)
Wellness Action Plans (WAPs) are gaining popularity as a tool individuals can use to manage their mental health and become more resilient regardless of whether they have a mental health problem. WAPs focus on key principles, including hope, personal responsibility and education.
An example WAP template is available from the mental health charity MIND here.
3. Consider offering an Employee Assistance Programme
An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a benefit programme offered by some employers. It can help support employees dealing with personal issues that might impact their work by providing access to counselling and referral services.
Those without an EAP who work in construction in the UK and Ireland can use the Construction Industry Helpline.
4. Stay social
The necessity to find new ways of working during the coronavirus lockdown shone a light on the fact that we are social creatures.
Lockdown saw many businesses increase their use of online communication tools such as Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams to keep their businesses operational, engage staff and stave off feelings of social isolation. Meanwhile tools such as Office 365's Yammer are proving increasingly popular to unite workforces and allow workers to share everything from company initiatives to personal achievements.
5. Invest in mental health first aiders as well as physical first aiders
The HSE suggests employers consider the benefits of covering Mental Health First Aid training in addition to First Aid at Work training.
Mental Health First Aid involves spotting the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, providing non-judgmental support and reassurance, and guiding a person to seek professional help. For more, see: www.lighthouseclub.org.
6. Prioritise mental health throughout your supply chain
Look for evidence that your supply chain takes mental health as seriously as you do by checking they are accredited by an organisation such as CHAS, or in the case of the construction industry, that they have been assessed to the industry's Common Assessment Standard. This will give you confidence that they have the processes to manage and promote mental well-being within their organisations.
Alex Minett is head of products & markets at CHAS (The Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme).
