The code of practice warns that construction companies and contractors too often address mental health concerns only once a worker is unwell, rather than helping staff to stay healthy in the first place.
It calls for the industry instead to design projects and working conditions with workers’ wellbeing in mind, to avoid reaching a point of crisis.
This includes a move to ensure each new project “does not rely on a ‘heroic effort’ or unsafe demands”.
Similarly clients should consider commissioning realistic projects instead of those priced too tightly which then run into delays later, piling pressure on workers.
“Poor planning and fragmented communication across the supply chain mean that changes, errors and knock-on delays are common,” the code warns.
At the same time, staff should be paid more for their usual work hours to avoid the need to rely on overtime.
Aggressive culture on building sites
This means changing the culture on building sites, which can become aggressive.
“Some workers experience bullying, harassment, intimidation and exclusion at work. This can create stress, damages mental health and discourages people from speaking up. Where it is not challenged, poor behaviour can become normal,” the code warns.
Other changes should include steps to reduce travel time, to give workers longer to relax between shifts and to see their families.
The code suggests employing more local workers instead of those from distant areas, and providing shuttle buses to and from sites, connecting staff with public transport instead of requiring them to make long and arduous drives.
Facilities, such as toilets and catering, should be clean and free of work-related information, the CLC said, to give staff dignity and breaks from the demands of the job.
