Housing industry calls for focus and consideration in Safe Work Month

In a time of unprecedented pressure in the housing sector, Safe Work Month is a timely reminder for all those in the industry to keep safe, remain focused on health and safety management, and to look out for each other.

With a range of projects from Margaret River to Bunbury, Dunsborough based Managing Director of Tallwood Construction, Alex Campbell, said his priority was on looking after the physical and mental health of his team.

“Everyone in the industry is struggling with the pressures of juggling logistics on multiple job sites, the irregular supply materials and a lack of skilled labour,” he said.

“Add to this the pressure from clients concerned with timing and cost issues, and an underlying level of fatigue across the trades, and we’re in perilous times,” said Mr Campbell.

HIA WA Executive Director, Michael McGowan said, the pressures on builders and trades is currently at an all time high, and is impacting the health, safety, and wellbeing of those in the industry.

“The last two years has delivered a huge increase in demand for housing, while also throwing out some of the biggest challenges in material supply issues, rising costs and a huge deficit in the required labour force.”

“We understand there are a whole range of pressures from an industry and consumer perspective, and in this Safe Work Month call for everyone to be mindful of the safety and wellbeing of those around them in whatever role they may play,” said Mr McGowan.

“As a builder and a business owner, it is my responsibility to do everything I possibly can to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone that comes on to my projects – not just to comply with work health and safety regulations, but as a concerned and responsible citizen,” said Mr Campbell.

“While there are prescribed requirements and solutions to protect physical safety, and I urge everyone in the industry to access the resources and support of industry bodies such as the HIA, the increase in mental health issues is harder to combat.”

“I think as a community we all need to be more sensitive to how the people around us are faring, and if you think someone needs some support then have a conversation.”

“Thankfully there are now many organisations that can provide support and help is only a phone call away.

“HIA work closely with Beyond Blue, but whether it’s Beyond Blue, Mates in Construction, Lifeline or another organisation, the important thing is to reach out and have the conversation,” said Mr Campbell.

“The construction industry is one of the most important sectors in our economy providing homes and jobs for the future growth of our communities, however one in four workers in the industry are affected by depression and anxiety at any one time, and workers in construction are more than twice as likely to take their own lives as employees in other industries,” said HIA WA Executive Director, Mr McGowan.

“Whether it’s business advice, training, apprentice support, contractual advice, safety or technical knowledge; we are working at every level of the industry to provide the support, services and resources to help alleviate the pressures within the industry.”

“In Safe Work Month and in every month, we ask people to be mindful of those around them, to respect the pressures, put in place the necessary safeguards and look out for each other,” said Mr McGowan.

For further information, imagery, comment from HIA or Alex Campbell, please contact Phil Vaughan – 0423 602 354.

HIA Charitable Foundation - HIA together with Beyond Blue aim to fight depression, anxiety and reduce the rate of suicide amongst workers in the building industry. HIA Charitable Foundation – 1300 783 345, hia.com.au

HIA Safety assists businesses to implement sound workplace safety practices with comprehensive packages of safety systems, tools and advice. Call 1300 650 620 or visit hia.com.au.

National Safe Work Month – www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au

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