Having a platform to express yourself and relate to other people in the industry can be more important than we think. Especially among these workers.

Concerns over mental health are growing in the construction industry because it ranks second highest in suicide rates among major business sectors.

Multiple factors likely contribute to higher suicide rates and mental health concerns in the construction industry, including the following:

• Male-dominated industry, with men experiencing the highest suicide rates;
• Toughness and strength are valued, mental health conditions, or seeking help, may be seen as a personal weakness;
• Stigma and fear of consequences associated with mental health issues and help-seeking;
• Shame and fear of judgment;
• Chronic pain;
• Seasonal and cyclical work contributing to family and financial strain;
• High-stress and deadline-driven work;
• Limited job control;
• Long work hours including the potential for a large volume of overtime leading to fatigue
• Separation from family when working away from home.

In fact, according to research done by the Construction Industry Rehabilitation Plan (CIRP), 83 percent of construction industry workers have experienced some form of moderate to severe mental health issues.

Mental illness is now the leading cause of disability in the workplace, said CIRP executive director Vicky Waldron.

Waldron said the workplace itself has a significant impact on mental health, and that creating psychologically safer workplaces can help to improve the mental health of workers.

However, physical safety can't be ignored either. Many of the risks can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities. For instance, in 2020, the number of nonfatal falls, slips, and trips was higher for construction workers than for all workers in other industries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

In 2021, OSHA’s most frequently cited job site violation was falling. The agency issued more than 5,400 violations for falls during that year, which totaled a combined $28.8 million in penalties. Construction is an inherently risky job. Most workers understand the potential dangers they can face. However, it’s easy to overlook basic safety protocols.

The bottom line is that these folks have it hard. So if anyone deserves a good laugh during a break at work, it's them.