QBE report uncovers mental health risks in UK construction industry

Half of UK construction workers have worked in dangerous environments while suffering from mental health issues, according to recently published research.

The report from commercial insurer QBE finds that 1.5 million workers could be at risk, while almost 700,000 had already suffered injuries as a result of poor mental health.

According to QBE, the research shows the cost to the UK construction industry as a result of unchecked mental health issues.

The survey canvassed 362 UK construction workers and finds three-quarters had continued to work in a dangerous construction environment while suffering from poor mental health.

At the same time, the report states that mental health issues have led more than a quarter of construction workers to take time off in the last 12 months.

QBE states that the UK construction market lost more than 5.1 million working days in 2023 due to mental health, which is almost a third of the 18 million working days lost in the whole of the UK economy.

The survey findings are symptomatic of the rising cases of poor mental health and their impact on the economy. UK government reports state that stress, anxiety or depression account for almost half (49%) of work-related ill-health and is the biggest cause of workplace absences.

The concern for the construction industry is the combination of poor mental health, a potentially hazardous workplace, and a lack of oversight in terms of mental health.

The survey finds that a third (32%) of workers say their employer has never checked with them about their mental health while 27% say they are uncomfortable discussing mental health with their employer.

The apparent stigma around mental health has led workers to lie about the reasons for absences, according to the research. More than a third (38%) of respondents told their employers they were absent because of a physical injury instead of poor mental health.

“Mental health issues are the biggest cause of lost workdays in the UK and a contributing factor in many workplace incidents,” says David Dexter, practice leader, risk solutions at QBE Europe.

“The UK construction industry is no exception; we are only too aware how mental health can be the hidden driver behind an incident or claim.”

Consequently, worker safety should be front of mind for construction firms, says Dexter. “Improving workplace culture by encouraging openness and demystifying stigmas when discussing mental health demonstrates to staff that their health and wellbeing should be a business priority.

“Even a small positive change in an employer’s approach to wellbeing and mental health can substantially address and change workplace pressure points, resulting in less stress and fewer accidents and incidents,” adds Dexter.

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