Dynapac and AJAX Paving addressing mental health in construction

Dynapac is taking an unusual step in the construction sector by partnering with a leading road contractor, AJAX Paving, to address mental health issues in the industry. The two firms are working together on an initiative from the National Asphalt Paving Association (NAPA).

Jamie Roush, president of Dynapac North America said that there is a need to shine a light on the problem of suicide in the construction industry.

Construction can be a dangerous industry to work in but according to Roush, around 2-3 times as many of the workforce will die at their own hands than from workplace accidents.

This shocking figure should be of serious concern. Given the shortage of people entering the industry and the large number of older personnel retiring, construction cannot afford to lose anyone through suicide. And this is without considering the sheer human cost of so many avoidable deaths.

Dr Vince Hafeli, president of AJAX Paving Florida commented, “This is a tough industry but we have to treat employees with respect.”

He said that it is important to ensure that there is compassion in the workplace, with no bullying and an understanding of the stresses that factors such as night shift working, sleep deprivation or being away from families can impose on individuals.

Roush said, “We hope this will grow and that the initiative will get people talking.”