By organizing various events and conducting training sessions, Shawmut emphasizes its employees' mental and physical health and cultivates a culture of support on its 15th annual Construction Safety Week celebration. These programs include various activities and initiatives, such as first aid training, intended to improve the mental well-being of construction workers.
(Photo : Pexels/Yura Forrat )
Annual Construction Safety Week
In recognition of its Construction Safety Week, Shawmut Design and Construction, a national construction management firm valued at $1.6 billion, emphasizs the significance of implementing wellness initiatives for employees throughout the year, eliminating the social stigma associated with mental health concerns, and utilizing cutting-edge AI technologies to enhance safety on construction sites.
During the Safety Week, which will span from May 6th to May 10th, Shawmut Design and Construction anticipates the active participation of more than 1,300 dedicated workers alongside numerous trade partners. These individuals will collectively engage in diverse events and training sessions meticulously designed to enhance safety protocols, prioritize wellness initiatives, and foster a culture of support and camaraderie within the construction industry.
As mentioned, Shawmut offices and job locations participate in activities that transcend mere compliance with regulations; they foster an open and honest dialogue regarding seeking assistance, conduct mindfulness and meditation clinics, and provide training on Narcan and first aid. Shawmut has a long-standing and industry-leading dedication to its employees' mental and physical welfare, and these programs highlight that commitment.
Various events include the vibrant job sites of the Aguilar Branch of the New York Public Library, the prestigious Glorya Kaufman Creative Community Center situated at the Wende Museum in Los Angeles, and the ongoing revitalization efforts at Boston's historic municipal building located at 26 Court Street. As stated, each venue will serve as a dynamic backdrop for exchanging knowledge, skills, and experiences to further safety standards and promote holistic wellness practices.
Central to Shawmut's approach to Safety Week is reportedly a firm commitment to effecting meaningful change, particularly in addressing the pervasive mental health crisis gripping the construction industry. Thus, Shawmut's dedicated Mental Health & Wellness Leadership Group is at the forefront of this endeavor, comprising passionate individuals who diligently identify and implement programs, initiatives, and pathways to support all employees' mental and emotional well-being.
Also Read: Exploring 6 Frequently Used Partition Wall Types
Importance of Addressing Mental Health Issues
The construction industry has witnessed significant improvements in safeguarding its employees against physical injury in recent years. On the other hand, standard industry loss control and safety measures concentrate almost solely on physical loss and pay little attention to mental health and wellness. A more comprehensive approach is required when considering workers' health and safety, encompassing not only their physical but also their mental and emotional welfare. In the end, mental health impacts workers' safety.
Moreover, employers should promote a culture that prioritizes the well-being of employees, emphasizing the idea that asking for assistance is a sign of strength rather than weakness. Thus, implementing awareness campaigns, counseling services, and workshops on mental health can increase the frequency and acceptance of conversations on mental health. By adopting this proactive viewpoint, an organization can foster an atmosphere of empathy and comprehension among its staff while enabling timely intervention to avert the worsening of mental health concerns.
Related Article: 6 Inclusive Strategies to Address the Mental Health Crisis in Construction
