Construction Suicide Prevention Week is Set for September 9-13th
September 2, 2024
Introduction
Construction Suicide Prevention Week, running from September 9-13, aims to tackle the high suicide rates in the construction industry, which is the second highest among all sectors. It will take place during National Suicide Prevention Month, featuring a national stand-down and moment of silence at 2:50pm Eastern Time on September 9, 2024. In 2003, approximately 300,000 construction workers from 47 states and territories participated.
How to Get Involved
The Construction Suicide Prevention website provides plenty of resources intended to help support the mental health of workers and to organize a stand-down. Toolbox Talks to help raise awareness for Suicide Prevention can be found here. Various materials and clothing are available to help spread the life saving message.
Who to Call In a Crisis
- Suicide Prevention: 988
- Sexual Assault or Abuse: 800-656-4673
- Abuse and Neglect of Children: 800-422-4453
- Domestic Violence: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Complex Caregiving Challenges: 966-227-3640
- Poising: 1-800-222-1222
- Substance Abuse Alcoholics Anonymous: 800-839-1686
- Substance Abuse National Drug Hotline: 844-289-0879
Resources
PATHS is offering over 60 training sessions to promote disaster and emergency preparedness in the workplace. Key sessions include:
- Emergency Action Plans (Sept 4, 9:30-10:30 a.m.)
- Active Shooter Awareness (Sept 6, 2:00-2:30 p.m.)
- Job Safety Analysis (Sept 9, 9:00-9:30 a.m.)
- Suicide Prevention (Sept 10, 1:30-2:30 p.m.)
- Health Hazards in Construction (Sept 12, 1:30-2:30 p.m.)
- First Aid Awareness (Sept 24, 11:00-11:30 a.m.)
- Risk Management (Sept 25, 9:30-10:30 a.m.)
- Hazard Identification (Sept 30, 9:00-9:30 a.m.)
Additionally, there are Workplace Safety Committee (WSC) Certification sessions:
- Initial Certification: Sept 10, 9:30-11:00 a.m. & Sept 26, 1:30-3:00 p.m.
- Renewal: Sept 3, 1:30-2:45 p.m. & Sept 19, 9:30-10:45 a.m.
PATHS provides statewide, cost-effective safety training resources for creating safer workplaces. Training can be onsite or virtual. For more information and registration, visit www.dli.pa.gov/Businesses/Compensation/WC/safety.
Conclusion
Construction Suicide Prevention Week offers a crucial opportunity to address the suicide rates within the construction industry. By participating, you join a collective effort to prioritize mental health and support those at risk. Reaching out for help is vital, please don’t hesitate to use the provided crisis contact numbers if someone you know is in need.
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Help us effectively support the mental health of our construction workers together. If you know or feel someone may be struggling please call, text, or chat 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Contact us for more information on how to get involved in Construction Suicide Prevention Week!
