By Mary Klett, ASA Communications Team

The Baltimore chapter of ASA is holding a 3-part in-person discussion about suicide prevention. The first session, held on November 9, involved a small panel of those in the construction industry discussing their experience in construction, their struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction, how attitudes of others changed once you become the “boss,” substance abuse in others, how suicide is sometimes taken “as a given” in the industry. The audience also shared their stories.

They also discussed the possible reasons for this dubious “number 1” distinction, including the “macho” image of the industry, the fact that working cash jobs is easier in this industry (easy come, easy go), more injuries (hence more likely to have access to pain meds), constant dangerous conditions (watch that back-hoe behind you!). Plus the pressure to build FASTER, yet be SAFER. 

As far as “what to do” – 

Support has to filter down from the top, and be endorsed at each level. Unless there’s an organizational ethos of watching out for each other, people with problems will just withdraw even more. 

People struggling will talk to those they know and feel comfortable with – not necessarily their boss. 

During “wellness benefits” discussions, include mental health, warning signs, and where to go for help. 

For those companies and chapters interested in learning more, here’s the format for these morning discussions. Please reach out to Warren Quinn at office@asaofbaltimore.org for more information. 

PART 1:  – Surviving the Challenges

 Format/Speaker(s):  Panel of individuals with construction experience

 Objectives:

• Raise awareness of the scope of the problem
• Describe the various issues – addition, mental health, suicide
• How to identify employees at risk/screening tools
• Emotional approach – stories – get commitment from attendees to help employees
• Ignoring issue does not mean it’s not an issue

 PART 2:  Resources for Employees and Employers

Format/Speaker(s):  Panel including attorney, HR professional, insurance professional, and safety consultant

Agenda/Objectives:

• Legal/Regulatory/Contractual Risks of knowledge of employee’s behavior
• Responsibilities/Responses of employers with knowledge of employee’s behavior
• Integration with Safety Program
• Resources available to employers
• Resources available to employees

PART 3:  Corporate Culture and Leadership Issues

 Format/Speaker(s):  Warren Quinn, HUMANS AT WORK

 Agenda/Objectives:

• Downside of the “macho” culture in construction industry
• Ego:  Reactive vs. Creative Behaviors
• “Big Talk” – Difficult Conversations (vs. “small talk”)
• Leadership Responsibilities (not really “HR’s problem”)