Suicide in the construction industry is a major health and safety problem. The safety of our employees and suicide prevention in construction is a high priority for us.
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| Attempt to Suicide |
The pain that leads people to kill themselves is hard to
imagine. Their deaths leave families and friends in mourning, and they often
have a great effect on communities.
Each year, more than 800,000 people die by suicide
worldwide; it is about a person who dies every 40 seconds. The number of lives
lost each year to suicide is greater than the number of deaths from murder and
war combined.
Mental health problems (especially depression and alcohol
use) are a major risk cause for suicide. World Suicide Prevention Day brings
together individuals and organizations interested in suicide prevention and
mobilizes efforts to save lives.
The connection is crucial for people who might consider
suicide. We know that loneliness can increase the risk of suicide and that
having strong human ties can protect people from it. Reaching out to those who
have disconnected from others and offering support and friendship can be a
life-saving act.
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| Signages |
Anyone could make this decision. The suicide rate among
construction workers is one of the highest. This fact coincides with the study
of the workplace that indicates that 38% of construction personnel are in the
age group of 45 to 54 years. Spotting the warning signs of suicide and
informing employees about the health services available to them can save lives.
Numerous causal factors contribute to the
suicide rate among construction workers.
Abuse: substance abuse such as alcohol and drugs is associated with a 75% probability of a suicide attempt.
Signs of suicidal risks
- Know the possible warning signs.
- More absenteeism
- Lower productivity
- Lower self-confidence
- Peer isolation
- Nervousness and more conflict between coworkers
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Less ability to solve problems
- Excessive use of legal or illegal substances
Suicide prevention in construction
Communication: open the lines of communication. Make time to
talk with your coworkers about what’s going on inside and outside of work.
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| Suicide |
Warning Signs – If you see someone displaying warning signs,
talk to that person or raise the matter with your supervisor. Have a follow-up
conversation to make sure the situation is being taken seriously.
What personal or work responsibilities cause stress?
- Do you know the phone number for Suicide Prevention?
- Have you observed a co-worker who needs help? Have you talked to anyone?
- Are you informed about the mental health services that the company offers and how to access them?
TIPS FOR THE PRESENTER:
- Read the practical information talk material in advance. If you know the subject, you will feel more comfortable and confident.
- Talk about the related tasks, work areas or events for which this practical information talk is relevant to your work.
- To get workers to participate, ask them questions and ask them to make comments that allow for discussion.
- Review the safety checklist with workers and have hard copies available.
