“This won’t work in construction.”
I’ve heard this objection often, especially from industries that are traditionally fast-paced, physically demanding, and especially if they are male-dominated. Construction is a sector where time is money, and wellbeing initiatives can be seen as irrelevant or impractical. But the reality is, industries like construction, where stress, fatigue, and physical strain are part of daily life, need wellbeing support more than most. Dismissing it as “not for us” can lead to bigger issues down the road—issues that affect safety, productivity, and workforce retention.
Take a typical construction site…
Deadlines are tight, workers are putting in long hours, and the physical demands of the job are exhausting. There’s a belief that wellbeing initiatives—like mental health support or stress management—just don’t fit into the rugged, no-nonsense world of construction. But what happens when that same workforce begins to struggle? Injuries increase, mistakes are made, and turnover rates climb. In industries where safety is paramount, a lack of wellbeing support isn’t just a risk to the individual, it’s a risk to the entire project and the company’s bottom line.
Where has this happened?
In fact, the construction industry has seen the real impact of ignoring wellbeing. The Office for National Statistics (ONS, 2022) reported that construction workers are three times more likely to commit suicide compared to the national average – that is an absolute scandal. One in five construction workers experience mental health issues. Companies that have implemented industry-specific wellbeing initiatives, like site-based mental health first aiders or tailored physical wellness programmes, have seen significant improvements. For example, in 2021, a leading UK construction firm introduced flexible break times and mental health workshops on-site and saw a 15% reduction in workplace injuries and a marked improvement in employee retention.
How can we make wellbeing work in construction?
Wellbeing in construction needs to be practical and integrated into the flow of work, not treated as an afterthought. Solutions like mental health awareness training tailored to a construction environment, on-site wellbeing champions, or fatigue management systems can be life-changing for employees. Simple changes, like offering flexible break structures, providing access to hydration and rest zones, or regular check-ins on mental and physical health, can have a profound impact without disrupting workflow. This is a safety issue and needs to be positioned in this way.
Let’s talk…
If you’re thinking “this won’t work in construction,” it’s time to reconsider. Wellbeing doesn’t have to look the same as in other industries—it just needs to be designed for your world. Let’s explore how we can create wellbeing solutions that fit your site, your people, and your challenges, helping you improve safety, productivity, and retention in the process.
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