California Department of Industrial Relations
09/09/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/09/2024 18:02
Cal/OSHA Encourages Employers and Workers to Raise Awareness of Construction Suicide Prevention Week
NEWS RELEASE
Sacramento-Cal/OSHA is encouraging employers and workers to raise awareness of Construction Suicide Prevention Week, September 9 - 13. Hundreds of thousands of construction workers are participating in this week throughout the country to show how there is support and resources for work-related mental health and suicide prevention.
Cal/OSHA's new webpages Mental Health Resources and Construction Suicide Prevention Week provide employers and workers information to support awareness and reduce barriers for workers to acknowledge mental health concerns related to work.
WHY IT MATTERS: Construction Suicide Prevention Week is a time to recognize and help prevent the higher than average rate of suicide in the construction industry.
Employers have the unique opportunity to be leaders in making their workers feel comfortable with addressing mental health concerns by providing information and discussing resources. Cultivate a supportive work environment that champions mental wellbeing as part of the safety and health of employees. Consider the factors that add to physical and mental stress for construction workers including exhausting work and short deadlines.
What Cal/OSHA Chief Debra Lee Said: "At Cal/OSHA, protecting the safety and health of all California workers is a cornerstone of who we are, but under the hard hats and safety gear are our friends, sisters, brothers - who are fighting battles we can't always see. Together let's help prevent suicide. Make it a priority to check on our construction brothers and sisters, ensuring they know they're valued, supported and never alone."
Every September, the world raises awareness about suicide prevention during National Suicide Prevention Month.
The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is raising awareness about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This year, SAMHSA is launching the first annual 988 Day on September 8. This year's theme is "No Judgment. Just Help". They have a call to action you can also join. 988 for suicide and crisis help is available year-round for those that need it.
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