MAY - 2023CONSTRUCTIONTECHREVIEW.COM8IN MYOPINIONAs a contractor, we strive for two things - delivering the perfect product while ensuring the safest possible environment for our labour, consultants, and clients. We create amazing buildings and interiors that are awe inspiring, have no snags and are spotless. One thing that has historically been neglected however, has been the site set-ups.I remember my first construction experience. I was working on a Grade II listed mansion, located at the Bishops Avenue, Hampstead. One of the most expensive streets in the UK. We, the architects, and contractors, were based in a metal portacabin, using a heater saved from a skip at -8°C. We resembled more the Michelin Man than ourselves. At the time, no-one batted an eyelid. We were working at a construction site after all.There has been a huge effort in the construction industry to ensure the physical safety of our workers. Providing all sorts of preventative measures and PPE to ensure they do not get a scratch while working. This is important and we should always aim to do more. One death due to unsafe conditions is way too many. But let's talk real numbers. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported that in the year 2021 to 2022, there were 30 fatalities due to health and safety-related incidents, while a whopping 507 construction workers lost their lives due to suicide. Once again, the construction industry racks up the highest number of mental health related deaths across any industry. It's not acceptable. We must do something about it.As someone who comes from an architectural and interior design background, over the years, I have seen a lot of progress. Mental health first aiders are trained at construction sites, and brochures are MENTAL HEALTH UNDER CONSTRUCTION (OF SITE SET-UPS!)By Deniz Kayimbasioglu, Design Manager, OverburyDeniz Kayimbasioglu
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