CDC survey

In the United States, the alarming rate of suicide is a significant concern, with approximately 133 deaths by suicide occurring each day. This translates to someone taking their own life every 11 minutes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveyed to identify industries and occupations with the highest suicide risk.

According to the CDC’s study in January 2020, the construction industry stands out with the second-highest suicide rate in the country, accounting for approximately 5,500 suicides annually. This equates to 45.3 suicides per 100,000 construction workers, significantly higher than the national average of 14.2. Construction workers are 3.5 times more likely to take their own lives. The study also provides detailed data on specific trades within the construction industry, revealing rates such as 79 for ironworkers, 54.7 for carpenters, and 45.7 for construction managers.

These statistics are alarming, and this issue must be addressed. Also, we need to understand the problems that laborers face in this industry.

Toxic work environment

Construction is an uphill task and operates on slim profit margins. In this industry, meeting deadlines can be challenging, leading to increased costs. Various factors contribute to this issue, creating an unhealthy work environment. When deadlines are not met, individuals often engage in a blame game, further exacerbating the situation. Collaboration and support among team members are crucial for any organization’s success. However, relationships deteriorate when the blame game takes hold, resulting in a toxic atmosphere. This environment is particularly detrimental for laborers, who occupy the lowest rank on the construction site and bear the brunt of the blame.

No voice

Imagine working in a place where nobody cares about you, where no matter how hard you work, you are neither appreciated nor paid what you deserve. This scenario is undeniably frightening. Sadly, many of the global labor force is forced to endure such conditions daily. These individuals are often impoverished and trapped in a cycle of labor exploitation. They lack support and advocacy, as their voices go unheard. Moreover, many need to be more educated and aware of their rights. While some non-profit organizations are dedicated to improving their conditions, the sheer size of the industry would make it more challenging to regulate and address all the issues.

Lack of leadership

The construction industry is characterized by a lack of organization, with long chains of subcontractors involved in the process. Large companies often outsource their work to independent contractors who oversee the operations. However, even these subcontractors find themselves subject to the control and demands of the main contractor. They are expected to adhere to the established work culture, meet deadlines, and fulfill the requirements set by those in control. Unfortunately, this hierarchical structure can prevent the sub-contractor from experiencing a safe and supportive work environment despite their higher rank on the site. Furthermore, a significant issue in the construction industry is the need for more leadership qualities among individuals promoted to leadership positions. Strong leadership is needed to ensure the development of a human-centric leadership approach within the industry.

Safety

We know that construction sites are inherently risky environments, and the work carried out can be hazardous. The laborers, in particular, face the highest level of risk. They perform tasks such as climbing risky elevators and working on cementing terraces, exposing themselves to potential injuries from machinery and other hazards. Unfortunately, these laborers are often not provided with adequate safety measures. The situation is even worse in third-world countries, where laborers do not have access to any insurance that could assist them in a medical emergency or accident. This lack of safety measures and insurance further exacerbates the challenges faced by these vulnerable workers.