CONSTRUCTION
Challenges In Construction
Evolving To Protect Your Workers And Your Business
The construction industry is facing many changes . A labor shortage across the trades has been taxing construction firms for years as skilled craftspeople near retirement and the industry scrambles to attract young workers . The pandemic intensified the problem as demand for renovation , repair , and building projects has gone through the roof . People spending more time at home are attuned to ways they ’ d like to improve their spaces .
Less labor . More work . It ’ s a perfect storm that results in new exposures for construction firms . Onboarding lessexperienced team members increases the likelihood of injury . And administrative risk is evolving , too . To protect your workforce and business , build a wellcrafted employee handbook , review safety checklists , and team up with industry experts .
A MORE ROBUST HANDBOOK
How are you addressing mental health in your construction business ? Eighty percent of construction workers have felt stressed on the job while 60 % of employees within the sector reported suffering from mental health issues ( e . g ., depression and anxiety ). It ’ s vital to make the workplace a safe and supportive environment . Consider adding a resource guide to your handbook to connect employees with professional help for
dealing with drugs and alcohol , depression and anxiety , stress management and more .
To be proactive , add a standard protocol on how to deal with a mental health issue . Mental health hasn ’ t traditionally been part of the industry ’ s safety program , but our shared experience over the past two years boosted our empathy , making it easier to broach the subject . Ask your team how they ’ re doing , encourage open communication , and address underlying concerns before they create health and safety issues on the job . For additional resources , try the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ’ s virtual tools and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ’ s national helpline ( 1-800-662-HELP ).
Be Sure Checklist
CREATE A SAFETY CHECKLIST
While the labor force is changing , the risks and challenges they face are also evolving rapidly .
Update inventories , checklists , and procedures to help employees understand what equipment , skills , and responsibilities they carry into the field . Do not assume that workers “ just know ” what ’ s required . With a less-experienced labor pool , there ’ s a need to train and clearly communicate all expectations , both in writing and on the job , regularly .
PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION
The industrial sector ’ s value is projected to hit $ 12.9 trillion this year , catching the
• The talent shortage creates risk exposure . A ManpowerGroup survey revealed it ’ s the highest risk in 15 years with 69 % of companies reporting underemployment . Be sure to update your handbook to safely onboard new workers .
• Think off-the-jobsite when assessing risk and address issues like cyber and employee liability exposures .
• Ask your insurance advisor to connect you with resources for training , HR , certifications , and more .
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