September is Suicide Prevention Month, which is meant to promote awareness of mental health and suicide.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the suicide rate in construction occupations is nearly four times greater than the national average and five times greater than that of all other construction fatalities combined.
As part of its commitment to safety in the roofing industry, NRCA is a member of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention, a group of key industry organizations who have recognized and are committed to promoting the safety and well-being of construction workers. Established by the Construction Financial Management Association in 2016, the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s mission is “to provide and disseminate information and resources for suicide prevention and mental health promotion in construction with the goal of creating a zero-suicide industry.”
The Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention offers resources on its website, including published articles, posters to display in the workplace, and information and tips regarding how to plan an education session or suicide prevention summit, among other resources.
Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is calling on the industry to participate in Construction Suicide Prevention Week Sept. 4-8, when events will be held nationwide to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by construction workers and what can be done to help safeguard their mental health and lives. Learn more.
