As the UK prepares to mark Mental Health Awareness Week on 12 May, a stark warning has been issued to employers in construction, engineering and other high-risk sectors to treat mental health with the same urgency as physical safety.
Hydraulic hose specialist Pirtek is leading the call for action following new findings from its Under the Hard Hat campaign.
A survey of 343 workers across engineering, manufacturing, construction, marine and waste industries revealed that 94% have experienced mental health struggles such as stress, anxiety, depression or loneliness.
Worryingly, 14% admitted to having suicidal thoughts.
The research suggests a growing but often unseen mental health crisis in sectors traditionally focused on physical hazards.
Mental health-related absence in these industries is more than three times the national average, yet over 40% of workers say their employer either offers no support or they’re unaware if any exists.
Even among those who have spoken out, more than half reported feeling uncomfortable doing so.
“Professionals in these industries face visible physical risks every day, but the mental health risks are far less visible and arguably more dangerous,” said Martyn Smart, Group QHSE Manager at Pirtek UK & Ireland.
“Our research shows that mental health must now be considered a core aspect of health and safety strategies.”
Pirtek’s campaign is supported by charities including Andy’s Man Club, PIPS Suicide Prevention in Northern Ireland, and Pieta in the Republic of Ireland.
Lucas Whitehead, Head of Marketing and Partnerships at Andy’s Man Club, added: “Mental health doesn’t discriminate.
"The stigma surrounding it – particularly among male-dominated industries – must be broken. No one should suffer in silence.”