OCC/Welfare/TBT-OCC-022
Mental Health and Wellbeing on Site
Occupational Health › Welfare › Mental Health and Wellbeing on Site
Toolbox Talk
Mental Health and Wellbeing on Site
The construction industry has one of the highest rates of suicide of any UK sector. Two construction workers take their own lives every working day. Long hours, time away from family, job insecurity, financial pressures, and a culture of not talking about problems all contribute. Mental health is just as important as physical safety. Recognising the signs of poor mental health in yourself and your colleagues, and knowing where to get support, can save lives.
Key Hazards
Stress and anxiety from work pressures, deadlines, and job insecurity
Depression exacerbated by long hours, fatigue, and isolation from family
Substance misuse used as a coping mechanism for untreated mental health conditions
Impaired concentration and decision-making increasing the risk of workplace accidents
Control Measures
- Create an open culture where talking about mental health is encouraged and normalised.
- Train mental health first aiders who are visible and accessible to all workers on site.
- Display contact details for support services including the Construction Industry Helpline.
- Check in on colleagues who seem withdrawn, unusually quiet, or are behaving differently.
- Manage working hours to allow adequate rest and time with family wherever possible.
- Provide access to employee assistance programmes offering confidential counselling support.
- Ensure supervisors are trained to recognise signs of poor mental health and respond supportively.
- Reduce workplace stressors through proper planning, adequate resourcing, and realistic timescales.
- Encourage physical activity and social interaction during breaks to support overall wellbeing.
Remember
- Two construction workers in the UK take their own lives every single working day.
- It is okay to not be okay — talking to someone is the first step towards getting help.
- Look out for changes in behaviour in your colleagues as these may be signs of mental distress.
- The Construction Industry Helpline is available 24/7 and calls are completely confidential.
- Mental health affects concentration and judgement, which directly impacts safety on site.
- Supporting a colleague in difficulty is just as important as any other safety intervention you make.
Applicable Legislation: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 · Equality Act 2010
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