Workplace Psychosocial Stressors in the Construction Industry: Perspectives of construction industry stakeholders (NZ)

BRANZ

G Jenkin, L Donnan, C Bowden, A Hoskin

Overview: Understanding the psychosocial stressors of an industry or workplace is vital for developing solutions to mitigate their adverse effects on mental health.

This research provides a comprehensive exploration of the perceptions and experiences of stakeholders in the construction industry regarding psychosocial stressors, their mental health impacts, and possible solutions to help mitigate those impacts.

The findings align with previous research, highlighting persistent issues in the construction industry. However, there is optimism as cultural change is evident, with increasing discussions on mental health and wellbeing in the sector.

Construction Industry Well-being Survey Results (NZ)

Supported by ASB

Overview: The construction sector is a cornerstone of Aotearoa/New Zealand’s (NZ) economy, contributing NZ$17.6 billion and employing 10.7% of the national workforce as of mid-June 2023 (MBIE, 2024). Despite its economic significance and vibrant nature, the industry can present significant challenges to its workforce, negatively affecting their mental health, well-being, and ill-being* (Morrison, Tu, & Jenkin, 2022). Amidst these stressors, one of the most pressing issues facing the industry is its disproportionately high rate of suicide. Studies have revealed that construction workers experience some of the highest suicide rates across occupations in NZ, with an average of 1 worker lost to suicide every 5 days in 2023 (Jenkin & Atkinson, 2021; Ministry of Justice, 2024).

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Non-Fatal Suicide Behaviour (NZ)

BRANZ

G Jenkin, L Donnan, C Bowden, A Hoskin

Overview: This study draws on empirical evidence and a validated costing methodology to provide a first attempt at the economic and social cost of suicide and non-fatal suicide behaviour to the NZ construction industry and estimate the impact of MATES in Construction NZ (MATES) in reducing this cost.

The MATES program effectively transforms the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours of construction industry workers. This study conservatively estimates that the program saves at least one worker's life each year, generating $14.2 million in savings to society. The potential return on investment is equivalent to 1:4.42. For every $1 invested in MATES, a return of $4.42 is achieved.

Towards an Evidence-Based Critical Incidents and Suicides Response Program in Australian Construction

MDPI

A Biggs, K Townsend, R Loudoun, A Robertson, J Mason, M Maple, J Lacey, N Thompson

Overview: Fatal and non-fatal accidents and suicides at work pose a substantial threat to workers’ physical and psychological safety, particularly within the construction industry. Managing these incidents is an essential component of workplace health and safety (WHS). Additionally, a formal program to support workers and provide feedback to improve the existing WHS management system is increasingly important. Development of the MATES Respond Training Program was informed by the following three key sources: a rapid literature review, interviews with 11 workers trained in peer support suicide prevention interventions, and an analysis of site notes on 193 critical incident and postvention construction site attendances by MATES in Construction field officers, case managers and social workers.

Strong minds, safe sites: enhancing mental and physical wellbeing in construction

Queensland Centre for mental Health Research

C Meurk, L Wittenhagen, M Lam, C Doran, E Heffernan

Overview: The Strong minds, safe sites: enhancing mental and physical wellbeing in construction report focuses on distress among Queensland construction industry workers, its drivers, impacts and opportunities for connection with support services. It highlights key findings from a study conducted by researchers from the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, in collaboration with construction industry organisations, which aims to improve systemic caring responses for people in the construction industry who experience distress.

The concept of distress – widely used but what does it mean for individuals working in the construction industry?

Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health

L Wittenhagen, J Gullestrup, C Doran, R Brimelow, N Thompson, E Heffernan & C Meurk

Overview: Distress is a frequently used concept, conveying a variety of meanings. Clear definitions are needed to promote common understanding, effective communication, and the development of solutions. One occupation in which workers disproportionately report distress is the construction industry. To implement effective models of care, a construction industry specific definition of distress is needed. Reducing distress may be explicitly achieved by offering appropriate coping strategies and actions for individuals to regain control and agency; however, a safe and supportive help-offering environment is a prerequisite for promoting help-seeking, and help-uptake behaviors.

Supervisor-worker relationships and the work environment: Development and validation of a construction specific measure

Science Direct

R Loudoun, A Biggs, A Robertson, K Townsend, A Troth

Overview: While the quality of supervisor-worker relationships are important in their own right, there are a multitude of ways in which supervisors exert influence on the work environment that extend beyond the dynamics of the dyadic relationships, including clarifying role expectations and allocating resources to balance workloads. The dearth of valid and reliable measures to assess aspects of the work environment that influence (and are influenced by) the quality of supervisor-worker relationships is a critical barrier to implementing effective mental health interventions in the workplace.

The economic cost of suicide and non-fatal suicide behaviour to the Queensland construction industry and the impact of MATES in Construction in reducing this cost

A report conducted for MATES in Construction (Queensland/Northern Territory) for the Queensland Building and Construction Industry.

Christopher M Doran, Boyd Potts

The objective of this study is to draw on the empirical research and a validated costing methodology to quantify the economic cost of suicide and non-fatal suicide behaviour to the Queensland construction industry and estimate the impact of MATES in Construction in reducing this cost.

The economic cost of suicide and non-fatal suicide behaviour to the Northern Territory construction industry and the impacts of MATES in Construction in reducing this cost

The objective of this study is to draw on the empirical research and a validated costing methodology to quantify the economic cost of suicide and non-fatal suicide behaviour to the Northern Territory (NT) construction industry and estimate the impact of MATES in Construction in reducing this cost.

Psychosocial Hazards in the Northern Territory Building and Construction Industry: A Profile of Job Demands and Job Resources in a Jurisdiction and Industry with High Rates of Suicide

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

N Thompson, A Robertson, R Loudoun, A Biggs, K Townsend

Overview: The work environment for building workers in Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) is characterised by concerningly high rates of distress and suicide at both a jurisdictional and an industry level. Work-related psychosocial hazards are known antecedents of work-related distress and suicide, and more research is required to understand how these hazards impact workers in this unique building context. This paper examines the unique work environment in the NT building industry by comparing psychosocial hazards in the NT with those in the broader Australian building and construction industry. Results suggest that the NT building and construction industry, and particularly FIFO/DIDO operations, require greater resourcing, investment, and focus on workplace mental health initiatives to improve the work environment and wellbeing of this workforce and mitigate hazards that can lead to distress and the high rates of occupational suicide found in this jurisdiction and industry.

Supervisor relationships, peer support and mental health stressors in the Australian building and construction industry

Routledge Taylor & Francis Group: JOURNAL OF WORKPLACE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

N Thompson and C Doran

Overview: MATES operationalized a workplace mental health framework consisting of five domains in 2019 in a move toward a broader systems-based approach to workplace mental health in the building and construction work environment. Using job demands-resources (JD-R) theory and a revised ver-sion of the People at Work Survey (PAW-Con), the objective of this study is to explore workplace mental health trends within the Australian building and construction industry with the aim of identifying areas of improvement required to mitigate psychosocial hazards at work.

Blueprint Roundtable – Systematic Review of The Australian Building and Construction Industry Blueprint for Better Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Report submitted to MATES in Construction by The Centre for Work, Organisation and Well-Being, Griffith University

A Biggs, A Robertson, K Townsend, C Hon

Overview: This review aims to build a strong empirical foundation for the Blueprint for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in the Building and Construction Industry. It involves analysing research on empirical interventions published before and after the original inception of the Blueprint in 2017 and best practices in enhancing mental health at work. Combining these sources is crucial for creating workplace mental health programs grounded in empirical evidence and characterised by forward-thinking innovation aimed at addressing a broad spectrum of issues while adhering to rigorously validated intervention theories.

Blueprint Roundtable – Audit Tool and People at Work Construction Survey Results Overview

Report submitted to MATES in Construction by The Centre for Work, Organisation and Well-Being, Griffith University

A Biggs, A Robertson, K Townsend, C Hon

Overview: This report delivers a critical evaluation of the current landscape of mental health and suicide prevention within the Australian building and construction sector. It encapsulates a period from 2022 to 2023, providing a dual perspective encompassing both employer and employee viewpoints. The analysis is underpinned by data collated using the current Blueprint Pillars Audit Tool, which has captured responses from 116 organisations over the last 18 months, representing a workforce of 11,756 individuals directly employed by the organisation and over 45,000 construction workers under supervision of the organisation.

MATES in Construction 2023 Industry Roundtable – Bayesian Network Analysis of People at Work Construction (PAW-CON) Survey Data

Report submitted to MATES in Construction by The Centre for Work, Organisation and Well-Being, Griffith University

A Biggs, A Robertson, C Hon, C Sun

Overview: This study aimed to answer the question, "What combinations of work-related stressors are most likely to determine whether a worker will exhibit poor mental health?” To answer this question, we drew on survey responses obtained from 2,715 construction workers.

“And you feel like you’re suffocating … how the f*** am I going to get out of all this?” Drivers and experiences of suicidal ideation in the Australian construction industry

Frontiers in Psychiatry

S Tyler, K Gunn, B Clifford, N Procter

Overview: This research was designed to generate understandings of drivers and experiences of suicidal ideation and distress among Australian Construction Industry workers, as well as what helped during these experiences. Fifteen participants, from a variety of ACI or closely associated roles, with an average age of 45 years (29–66), engaged in individual, semi-structured interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded with consent and analyzed using descriptive thematic analysis. Eight themes relating to what may drive the presence of suicidal ideation and distress were identified.

Exploring the Impact of Social Identity on the Bullying of Construction Industry Apprentices

Preprints.org

P Greacen, V Ross

Overview: There is a lack of literature specifically examining the workplace bullying of apprentices and trainees in traditional, male-dominated sectors such as the Australian building and construction industry. Using social identity theory (SIT), the aim of this study was to gather the attitudes, thoughts, and feelings of construction industry leaders to better understand how social identification (i.e., group membership) impacts bullying on targets and perpetrators, and the willingness to report bullying for targets and bystanders.

Effectiveness of the Australian MATES in Construction Suicide Prevention Program: a systematic review

Health Promotion International

J Gullestrup, T King, S L Thomas, A D La Montagne

Overview: This systematic review examined the available evidence for the effectiveness of the MATES program and is reported according to PRISMA guidelines. A literature search resulted in the inclusion of 12 peer-reviewed articles published between January 2010 and February 2023 containing primary data of evaluations of MATES. There was evidence of the effectiveness of the MATES program in improving mental health and suicide prevention literacy, helping intentions and reducing stigma.

Suicide in the Australian Mining Industry: A National Study

MATES in Mining

T King, H Maheen, Y Taouk, A LaMontagne

Overview: Given similarities between the construction and mining sectors in terms of occupations (predominantly labourers and skilled trades workers), composition (male-dominated), and normative factors (prevalence of traditional masculine norms), it is possible that rates of suicide among mining workers are similar to that of construction workers. Other research has found high levels of psychological distress among mining workers, and mining specific factors such as the rising prevalence of FIFO and DIDO arrangements may also increase risk among mining workers.

Understanding and enhancing responses to distress in the construction industry: Preliminary findings from a nation-wide mixed methods study

MATES in Construction

L Wittenhagen and C Meurk

Overview:

This report summarises preliminary findings from a nation-wide consultation with the aim to validate a definition of distress, and to further explore what distress and help-seeking means to the individuals working within the construction industry. The findings contained in this report will be further analysed and interpreted in the development of a manuscript and submitted to an international peer reviewed journal.

MATES in Construction Blueprint / PAW-Con Survey 2022 Annual Report

MATES in Construction

Griffith University

Overview: This report provides an overview of mental health and suicide prevention in the building and construction industry from August 2021 to August 2022. Data for the report were gathered using three tools – The Blueprint Pillars Survey, The Blueprint Audit Tool and The People at Work - Construction (PAW-CON) survey

Suicidal Ideation in the Australian Construction Industry: Prevalence and the Associations of Psychosocial Job Adversity and Adherence to Traditional Masculine Norms

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

S Tyler, K Gunn, A Esterman, B Clifford, N Procter

Overview: Suicide in the Australian Construction Industry (ACI) is a significant issue, however minimal understanding of suicidal ideation prevalence, as well as the potential role psychosocial job adversity and increased adherence to traditional masculine norms may play in its presence, is apparent. A representative sample of Australian men were used to create initial understandings of prevalence of suicidal ideation, psychosocial job adversities and level of adherence to traditional masculine norms for the ACI in comparison to a general population comprised of the remaining employed males from Other Industries.

Suicide in the Construction Industry: A Targeted Meta-analysis

Taylor & Francis Online

S Tyler, H Hunkin, K Pusey, K Gunn, B Clifford, N Procter

Overview: With research suggesting an increased risk of suicide for those employed in the construction industry the present review aimed to provide an updated, targeted, and rigorous estimate of the relative risk of suicide for this population.

Disentangling Rates, Risk, and Drivers of Suicide in the Construction Industry: A Systematic Review

American Psychological Association

S Tyler, H Hunkin, K Pusey, K Gunn, B Clifford, H McIntyre, N Procter

Overview: Research suggests construction industry workers (CIWs) face increased suicide vulnerability. The current study synthesizes international evidence examining rates, risk, and drivers of CIW suicide. Twenty-five potential drivers were identified and classified as personal- or industry-related. Disentanglement highlighted the relevance of previously understood personal drivers, need for future focus on industry drivers, and potential interplay between drivers.

Suicide in the Construction Industry: 2001-2019 Volume V: August, 2022

MATES in Construction

H Maven, A LaMontagne, T King

Overview: To inform its ongoing suicide prevention efforts, and to provide an evidence base for targeted workplace mental health literacy, MATES seeks to understand suicide trends among Australian construction workers. This report documents the updated examination of suicide mortality among Australian male construction workers relative to non-construction workers. We use the latest suicide mortality statistics obtained from the National Coronial Information Service to examine trends across the years between 2001 and 2019.

MATES in Construction New Zealand: Industry Wellbeing Environmental Scan and Survey

Allen + Clarke
K Morrison, D Tu, G Jenkin

Overview: In late 2021, it became noticeable that workers were experiencing a significant increase in anxiety, fear, anger and frustration. There is a term that has been labelled “coronaphobia” which is fears relating to contracting the virus, we felt that this could be causing increased anxiety. We were also hearing about segregation and stigmatisation between our workers, (the vaxed versus the unvaxed). The stigma of COVID-19, in the present context, could be comprehended as a social process that sets to exclude those who are perceived to be a potential source of disease and may pose threat to the effective social living in the society. MATES wanted to get a better understanding of how COVID-19 was impacting our workforce.

Construction industry suicides: numbers, characteristics, and rates

BRANZ

G Jenkins, J Atkinson

Overview: The specific aims of this research were to re-examine the definition of the construction industry (and re-define if necessary), clarify the numbers of suicide in the New Zealand construction industry and calculate the industry specific suicide rate. Accurate suicide data for the industry is critical for monitoring suicide trends and providing a baseline for assessing the effectiveness of suicide prevention initiatives.

MATES in Construction New Zealand: A longitudinal assessment of suicide prevention programme for construction workers

BRANZ

M Wilson, K Bryson, J Bartolo

Overview: This study is the first phase of an ongoing MATES evaluation programme in New Zealand. It evaluated the efficacy and impact of the General Awareness Training (GAT) on the workers’ attitudes towards suicide, help-offering, and help-seeking. It also produced evidence and baseline data to measure impact and inform further development and refinement of the MATES programme in New Zealand.

What is distress? Summary of a construction industry consultation breakfast

C Meurk and L Wittenhagen

Overview: In June 2021, MATES in Construction Queensland hosted an industry consultation breakfast and workshop at which construction industry representatives came together to examine what ‘distress’ means to people in the construction industry. This report summarises the key findings of this consultation process.

The MATES Case Management Model: Presenting Problems and Referral Pathways for a Novel Peer-Led Approach to Addressing Suicide in the Construction Industry

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

C Doran, L Wittenhagen, E Heffernan, C Meurk

Overview: The aim of this research was to conduct an evaluation of the MATES case management database to quantify service demand, and to examine the demographic, occupationalprofile, presenting issues, referral pathways, and perceived benefit of case management among individuals who used this service.

Factors Associated With Workplace Bullying and the Mental Health of Construction Industry Apprentices: A Mixed Methods Study

Frontiers in Psychiatry

V Ross, A Mathieu, R Wardhani, J Gullestrup, K Kolves

Overview: This Australian study applied an exploratory sequential mixed methods design to explore issues faced by apprentices, estimate the prevalence of bullying and explore the factors associated with bullying and the mental health of apprentices.

Effective Elements for Workplace Responses to Critical Incidents and Suicide: A Rapid Review

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

T Pearce, L Bugeja, S Wayland, M Maple

Overview: Despite high rates of critical incidents (CIs) in working class occupations, there is a significant gap in our understanding of responses to these events. In this study, we aimed to inform a response training module by synthesising the key elements of pre-, during- and post-incident responses to CIs and suicide in the workplace.

COVID-19 and suicide risk in the construction sector: preparing for a perfect storm

Scandinavian Journal of Public Health

T King, A LaMontagne

Overview: In many parts of the world, construction workers are at elevated risk of suicide. Here, we examine the extent to which construction workers may be differentially exposed to the economic effects of COVID-19.

The Future is now: Implications of Covid-19 for New Zealand

Koi Tu: The Centre for Informed Futures

P Gluckman, A Bardsley

Overview: Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures was established to focus on long-term thinking about the complex issues facing New Zealand’s future. These issues generally involve a collision of knowledge, disciplines and expertise, intersecting with contested values.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought such issues even more rapidly to the fore. The intent of this paper is to help catalyse important conversations that are needed in the wake of New Zealand’s response to the crisis.

Suicide in the Construction Industry: 2001-2018 Volume IV: July, 2020

MATES in Construction

H Maheen, A LaMontagne, T King

Overview: This report is the fourth in five years that seeks to document suicide mortality, and examine trends in suicide mortality. Here we use the latest suicide mortality statistics to examine trends across the years between 2001 and 2018. This work is critical to MATES in Construction’s effort to provide an evidence base for targeted workplace mental health literacy.

Reducing the impact of critical incidence and suicide on construction workers: A rapid review and qualitative study

MATES in Construction

M Maple, S Wayland, T Pearce, L Bugeja, T Lal, N Jamieson

Overview: The construction industry is both transient and stable. Site specific needs are met through a workforce recruited to manage time-limited functions. It is natural for the workforce to then move on to other sites. This unique flow of the workforce creates an interconnected web of individuals who may have other life pressures outside of the workplace that can influence the safety of their work and their longer-term wellbeing. Through a rapid review of the literature this report assesses the quality of the evidence related to workplace critical incidents and suicide.

Evaluation of a Suicide Prevention Program for the Energy Sector

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

V Ross, N Caton, S Mathieu, J Gullestrup, K Kolves

Overview: The MATES in Construction program has recently been applied to the energy industry; however, little is known regarding exposure to suicide and suicide prevention interventions in this sector. The study aimed to examine the effectiveness of MATES in Energy general awareness training (GAT), and estimate the prevalence of recent suicidal ideation and exposure to suicidal behaviors in workers.

Effective elements for workplace responses to critical incidents and suicide – A systematic rapid review of the literature

T Pearce, L Bugeja, S Wayland, M Maple

MATES in Construction

Overview: The primary purpose of this rapid review is to answer the following research question: What are the key elements for response to CIs and suicide in the workplace? This will be achieved by retrieving literature that will be used to inform the development of postvention and CI response training module for MATES in Construction. The results of this review will also assist in providing an evidence base to guide the qualitative interviews which intend to capture the lived experiences of construction workers and managers and their responses to CIs and deaths by suicide in the workplace.

A review of the evidence related to the impacts of, and interventions for, workplace bullying in the Construction Industry

MATES in Construction

C Doran, A Rebar, K Waters, P Meredith

Overview: MATES in Construction (Queensland) commissioned research to examine the links between positive workplace health and safety culture and mental health and suicide risk including the impact of bullying on workplace physical and mental health and safety in the construction industry. Researchers from Central Queensland University co-designed a proposal with MATES in Construction (Queensland) that focussed on bullying as a psychological hazard. The proposal involved two activities: a systematic review of individual and organisational impacts of workplace bullying; and, a systematic review of workplace bullying interventions. Where possible, the reviews were focussed on evidence related to the construction and mining industries.

MATES in Construction Workplace Suicide Prevention Program: Articulation of Program Logic

MATES in Construction

A LaMontagne, C Shann

Overview: Elevated rates of suicide among construction workers compared to the general working male population have been identified in various countries around the world, including in Finland, the USA, Korea, Denmark, Canada, the UK and Australia, making this group a critical priority for prevention.^1-3 MATES in Construction (MATES) is a charitable organisation that was established in 2008 with the aim of reducing the high level of suicide among construction workers (http://mates.org.au/).

A Longitudinal Assessment of Two Suicide Prevention Training Programs for the Construction Industry

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

V Ross, N Caton, J Gullestrup, K Kõlves

Overview: General awareness training (GAT) is a one-hour session delivered to all construction workers on large to medium worksites, while MATES awareness training (MAT) maintains similar content but is of shorter duration and delivered informally to small workplaces. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the two programs using a before, after and follow-up design.

The Impact of Workplace Bullying on Mental Health and Suicidality in Queensland Construction Industry Apprentices.

Report by the Australian Institute for Suicide Prevention (AISRAP), Griffith University for MATES in Construction.

V Ross, R Wardhani, K Kolves

Overview: The current study aims to estimate the prevalence of Queensland apprentices who have experiencing bullying, as well as to obtain a snapshot of apprentices’ mental health and well-being, their perceptions of quality of supervision, suicide awareness and literacy, and experience of, and exposure to suicidal behaviours.

Does Help Seeking Behaviour Change Over Time Following a Workplace Mental Health Intervention in the Coal Mining Industry

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

E Sayers, J Rich, M Rahman, B Kelly, C James

Overview: A pre-post survey study of employees from two Australian coal mines to investigate help seeking behavior and attitudes to mental health in mining employees.

Are Young Men Getting the Message? Age Differences in Suicide Prevention Literacy among Male Construction Workers

T King, P Batterham, H Lingard, J Gullestrup, C Lockwood, S Harvey, B Kelly, A LaMontagne, A Milner

International journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Overview: Suicide is a leading cause of death among young men. Help-seeking is known to be poor among this group, and little is known about what interventions are most successful in improving suicide prevention literacy among young men. This research aims to examine: (1) age differences in beliefs related to suicide prevention literacy and attitudes to the workplace in addressing mental health among male construction workers; (2) age differences in response to a workplace suicide prevention program.

Article: Understanding the Barriers and Pathways to Male Help-Seeking and Help-Offering: A Mixed Methods Study of the Impact of the Mates in Construction Program

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

V Ross, N Caton, J Gullestrup, K Kolves

Overview: This mixed-methods study aimed to (1) examine the effectiveness of training for MATES connectors and (2) examine the barriers, motivations and pathways to help-seeking and help-offering for both MATES connectors and clients.

An evaluation of MATES in Construction Queensland Case Management

A report conducted for MATES in Construction

C Doran, L Adams, C Meurk, L Wittenhagen, E Heffernan

Overview: Case management is a core component of MATES. The research team undertook a descriptive analysis of the Queensland MATES case management database and developed an exit survey to assess the benefits of case management for clients.

An evaluation of the effectiveness of the MATES in Energy program

Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention

V Ross, N Caton

Overview: In order to ensure the MATES in Energy program had successfully transitioned from the construction to the energy sector, the Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention (AISRAP) was commissioned in 2019 by MATES in Construction to undertake an evaluation of the effectiveness of the MATES in Energy GAT training.

Mental health in the construction industry scoping study

BRANZ

K Bryson, A Duncan

Overview: The construction industry has the highest proportion of suicides across all industries in New Zealand. To date, there has been no research in New Zealand investigating the factors that contribute to the high rate of suicide for the construction industry workforce. This scoping study serves as a consultation with the New Zealand construction industry to gauge their support for further research on this issue.

Suicide in the Construction Industry Volume 3

MATES in Construction and The University of Melbourne

A Milner, T King, L Riccardi

Overview: This report presents the most recent analysis of trends in suicide within the construction industry. These analyses are also disaggregated by age group and state, for the benefit of stakeholders and funders of the MATES in Construction program.

Shifting Beliefs about Suicide: Pre-Post Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Program for Workers in the Construction Industry

International journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

T King, J Gullestrup, P Batterham, B Kelly, C Lockwood, H Lingard, S Harvey, A LaMontagne, A Milner

Overview: Suicide is a significant health problem that is known to disproportionately affect those employed in manual occupations, including construction workers and tradespeople. This paper sought to examine the effectiveness of the GAT program in shifting suicide beliefs.

An evaluation of the effectiveness of the Mates in Construction program: Results of a mixed-method, two phase study

Australian Institute of Suicide Research and Prevention

V Ross

Overview: In 2017, AISRAP was commissioned by MATES in Construction to evaluate the MATES program. The evaluation was comprised of a mixed-method, two-phase design. Phase 1 was a qualitative focus group study to examine motivations, pathways and difficulties in help-seeking and help-offering from the perspectives of both MATES volunteers and clients. Informed by the findings of the first phase, Phase 2 then quantitatively analysed the effectiveness of the Mates in Construction training in a large sample of construction workers from smaller sites across regional and metropolitan Queensland.

Report on the Construction Industry Apprentices' Focus Groups

Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention

Overview: Six focus groups were conducted with construction industry apprentices to learn about their needs in order to inform the update of the Life Skills training program. The focus was on problems/issues experienced at work and outside of work, and the types of information and support that would be helpful when they are ‘doing it tough’.

Feasibility and acceptability of strategies to address mental health and mental ill-health in the Australian coal mining industry

International Journal of Mental Health Systems volume 12, Article number: 66 (2018)

R Tynan, C James, R Considine, J Skehan, J Gullestrup, T Lewin, J Wiggers, B Kelly

Overview: To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness of implementing a peer-based, multi-component mental health program in the Australian coal mining industry.

A History of MATES In Construction Queensland (2008 - 2018)

G Shannon

Overview: Researching the history of the Queensland construction industry and disturbing statistics of suicide and how MATES in Construction Queensland was developed.

Male suicide among construction workers in Australia: a qualitative analysis of the major stressors precipitating death

BMC Public Health

A Milner, H Maheen, D Currier, A LaMontagne

Overview: Suicide rates among those employed in male-dominated professions such as construction are elevated compared to other occupational groups. We used a national coronial database to qualitatively study work and non-work related influences on male suicide occurring in construction workers in Australia.

A Qualitative Evaluation Of The Effectiveness Of The Mates In Construction Program

Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention

V Ross

Overview: This report provides a summary of a qualitative evaluation of the effectiveness of the Mates in Construction (MIC) program. Focus groups with MIC volunteers and individual interviews with MIC case management clients examined the motivations, pathways and difficulties in help-seeking and help-offering from the perspectives of both volunteers and clients.

Suicide in the Construction Industry: Report submitted to MATES in Construction by Deakin University Volume 2, 15 July 2017

The University of Melbourne, Deakin University,

A Milner, H Maheen

Overview: Around the world, suicide rates among those employed in blue collar occupations such as construction are higher than those in other occupational groups. Previous Australian research has also identified construction workers as being particularly at risk. This report was commissioned to assess recent trends in suicide among construction workers across Australian states and territories, and to examine whether suicide rates among construction workers remains higher than other occupational groups.

A Mixed-method Study Of Gat And Connector Training In The South Australian Construction Industry

Mental Health and Substance Use Research Group, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia

M Ferguson, H Eaton, N Procter in consultation with M Caston

Overview: This report provides a summary of a research project undertaken by the University of South Australia for MATES in Construction (MIC) South Australia. The purpose of this project was to explore the impacts of MIC SA on those who had participated in General Awareness Training or Connector Training specifically. This was achieved in two phases: 1) A cross-sectional survey; 2) Semi-structured interviews.

Summary Report: Mental Health in the Construction Industry

University of Melbourne

A Milner, P Law

Overview: Each time the Australian economy contracts, the construction industry is one of the first to feel the financial pressure. There is now a good understanding that suicide rates are elevated among construction workers. The stresses associated with construction work are likely to be one of many factors contributing to poor mental health and suicide in the industry. The Construction Industry Mental Health Roundtable was initiated by MATES in Construction and beyondblue to address problems associated with suicide and poor mental health in the industry.

The Economic Cost Of Suicide And Non-fatal Suicide Behaviour In The Australian Workforce And The Potential Impact Of A Workplace Suicide Prevention Strategy

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

I Kinchin, C M Doran

Overview: Suicide and non-fatal suicide behavior (NFSB) are significant problems faced by most countries. The objective of this research is to quantify the economic cost of suicide and NFSB in the Australian workforce and to examine the potential impact of introducing a workplace suicide prevention intervention to reduce this burden.

Ngā Rāhui Hau Kura

Health Quality & Safety Commission

Suicide Mortality Review Committee

Overview: This report into the feasibility of a suicide mortality review mechanism is an important step towards reducing New Zealand’s high suicide rates. Every week on average, 10 New Zealanders die by suicide. Many more are treated in hospital after a suicide attempt, having seriously harmed themselves. Sadly, we have some of the highest youth suicide rates in the OECD and suicide rates for Māori are over 50 percent higher than for non-Māori.

Saving Lives in the Construction Industry

MATES in Construction

T Grealy

Overview: Funding has been provided to MATES in Construction to scope the expansion of its suicide prevention initiatives to rural and regional Queensland and to include small and medium sized businesses. This project will examine and provide recommendations on future priorities and sustainable funding options for effective ‘wrap around’ services for suicide prevention and postvention in the construction industry.

2016 Fly The Flag Evaluation

S Collimore

MATES in Construction

Overview: As the Fly the Flag campaign is a relatively new concept [in 2016], the aim of this evaluation is to determine the faults of the program, and understand what both the MATES staff and employees of registered construction sites felt needed to be improved. By doing this evaluation MATES will be able to ‘iron out the creases’ and ensure the campaign runs more efficiently next year so that both time and money does not go to waste.

Mates In Construction Suicide Prevention Program: 5 Year Review

G Martin, S Swannel, A Milner, J Gullestrup

Journal of Community Medicine & Health Education

Overview: This review of the first five years of the MATES in Construction program in Queensland demonstrates broad program acceptability by workers, unions and construction companies. However, funding constraints and the size and geography of the State limited the overall reach to 35,761 workers from 476 building sites completing the first step in the program - General Awareness Training. Despite this, we compared suicide rates in Queensland male construction workers for the five years of the program (2008-2012) with the five years prior (2003-2007), in the context of general male suicide rates for Queensland and Australia for the two time periods.

Suicide In The Construction Industry

A Milner

Deakin University

Overview: This report was commissioned to assess recent trends in suicide among construction workers across Australian states and territories, and to examine whether suicide rates among construction workers remains higher than other occupational groups.

The Impact of a Suicide Prevention Strategy on Reducing the Economic Cost of Suicide in the New South Wales Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, J Gullestrup, S Swannell, A Milner

School of Human, Health and Social Sciences Central Queensland University

Overview: Little research has been conducted into the cost and prevention of self-harm in the workplace. This report aims to quantify the economic cost of self-harm and suicide among New South Wales (NSW) construction industry workers and to examine the potential economic impact of implementing Mates in Construction.

The Economic Cost Of Suicide And Suicide Behaviour In Australian Construction Industry By State And Territory

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of this study is to quantify the costs of suicide and NFSB in the Australian Construction Industry by state and territory.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the Australian Capital Territory Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the Australian Capital Territory Construction Industry.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the New South Wales Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine the trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the New South Wales Construction Industry.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the Northern Territory Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the Northern Territory Construction Industry.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the Queensland Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the Queensland Construction Industry.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the South Australian Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the South Australian Construction Industry.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the Tasmanian Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the Tasmanian Construction Industry.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the Western Australian Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the Western Australia Construction Industry.

The Economic Cost of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour in the Victorian Construction Industry

C Doran, R Ling, A Milner

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to examine trends in, and costs of, suicide and suicide behaviour in the Victorian Construction Industry.

The economic cost of suicide and suicide behaviour in the NSW construction industry and the impact of MATES in Construction suicide prevention strategy in reducing this cost

C Doran, R Ling

MATES in Construction

Overview: The aim of the current study is to quantify the economic cost of suicide, and suicide behaviour, among New South Wales (NSW) construction industry workers in 2010, and, to examine the potential impact of introducing a multi-faceted strategy called MATES in Construction (MATES) to address suicide prevention in the work-place in NSW in 2013-17.

FIFO/DIDO Mental Health Research Report 2013

Lifeline WA

P Henry, K Hamilton, S Watson, N Macdonald

Overview: The Sellenger Centre for Research in Law, Justice and Social Change at Edith Cowan University was commissioned by Lifeline WA to conduct research regarding Fly-in-Fly-Out/Drive-in-Drive-Out (FIFO) worker supports. The research aimed to identify the stressors associated with FIFO work and the ways in which FIFO workers cope with these stressors. The research further sought to reveal which services would best meet the needs of FIFO workers.

Suicide by Occupation: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

A Milner, M Spittal, J Pirkis, A LaMontagne

The British Journal of Psychiatry

Overview: Numerous studies have found that certain occupations such as medical professionals (including doctors, nurses, veterinarians), farmers and police are at elevated risk of suicide compared with the general employed population. This article sought to examine the relationship between occupation and suicide across the full evidence base through systematic review and meta-analysis, thereby building on past narrative reviews.

ASIST Worker Survey Report

C Banks

MATES in Construction

Overview: This report provides an analysis and evaluation of a survey conducted by Awareness Australia with the participants whom had completed Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training with Mates in Construction. The research was directed by the requirement of MATES in Construction to evaluate the experience of as many ASIST workers as possible and provide the organisation with an accurate and useable evaluation of the current program from the perspective of trainees.

Construction Site Employees: Edith Cowan University Life Suicide Prevention Strategy Research Report

P Henry, J Dooley, L Lester, J Tudor-Owen, D Halilovic

Sellenger Centre for Research in Law, Justice and Social Change

Overview: Conceptualisations of occupational wellbeing often include positive and negative elements, for example, job satisfaction and stress. Historically, limited attention has been given to positive expressions of occupational wellbeing although recent evidence indicates this is changing.

A Report on the Development of a Life Skills Program for Construction Apprentices

J Barletta, V Dundas

MATES in Construction

Overview: MATES in Construction aims to be Queensland’s leading industry suicide prevention organisation focusing on raising awareness, capacity building, providing help, and engaging in research. The Life Skills Program (LSP) has been developed in alignment with MATES' vision and mission, and in direct response to the AISRAP report (2006) into suicides in the Queensland construction industry.

MATES in Construction Program Evaluation

Footprints Market Research

MATES in Construction

Overview: MATES in Construction agreed that a research program is required to understand fully how the program is working on-site. Not only to provide useful feedback for the improvement of the program, if necessary, but also to gain industry support and drive the fundraising/ sponsor initiative.

Course In Life Skills - Pilot Project Evaluation

ArkAeon

C Kent

Overview: The “Course in Life Skills”, previously known as the “Life Skills Toolbox” (“the Course”) is a program aimed at increasing basic life skills and thereby improving resilience in Construction Industry apprentices. ArkAeon was engaged to undertake an evaluation of the pilot project. The approach to the evaluation was to conduct a series of structured interviews covering major stakeholder groups including management, facilitators, participants, unions, employers, funders and the training colleges.

Impact Of Multimodal Community-based Program For Suicide Prevention

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

J Gullestrup, B Lequertier, G Martin,

Overview: A large-scale workplace-based suicide prevention and early intervention program was delivered to over 9,000 construction workers on building sites across Queensland. Findings from over 7,000 workers (April 2008 to November 2010) are reported, indicating strong construction industry support, with 67% building sites and employers approached agreeing to participate in MIC

An Examination Of Fatigue In The Construction Industry

Building Employees Redundancy Trust (BERT)

E Hobman, N Jimmieson, K McDonald

Overview: Work-related fatigue has been identified as an important issue for Australian workplaces. The aim of this research project was to undertake an assessment of fatigue levels in the construction industry and to identify any associations with known risk factors and employee outcomes.

Advanced Health Assessment Report

Corporate Bodies International

J Maxwell

Overview: In December 2009, Corporate Bodies International (CBI) was recruited to undertake review Advanced Health Assessments for workers at the Baulderstone Gatton Correctional Centre construction site in QLD. This health assessment program is currently part of a 2 year intervention study called “Your Health, Your Future” funded by BERT.

Suicide In The Construction Industry: Investigation of Deaths Among CBUS Members

University of Melbourne

A Milner, H Niven and I Tchernitskaia

Overview: This research assessed the accuracy of causes of death recorded among Cbus members for the year 2008 against accounts held in the National Coroners Information System (NCIS). The cases chosen for this investigation were those that were deemed as having the potential to be suicide. The report also provides information on the overall burden of suicide in the construction period in Australia over time.

Correlates Of Suicide In Building Industry Workers, Archives Of Suicide Research

Routledge Taylor & Francis Group

T Heller, J Hawgood, D De Leo

Overview: Suicide within the construction industry in Queensland, Australia was reportedly high in a recent Royal Commission report. The current study examined the incidence and causes of suicide in this industry using psychological autopsy and focus group investigations. A total of 64 male suicides occurred over the seven-year period, representing a crude suicide rate of 40.3 per 100,000, significantly greater than the working age Australian male rate. Young employees were at excessive risk with separation=divorce, relationship problems, and untreated psychiatric conditions the major contributors. Focus groups emphasized the importance of work=home interface factors and industry-specific factors preceding suicide.

AISRAP Report: Queensland's Commercial Building and Construction Industry

Australian Institute of Suicide Research and Prevention

Overview: The incidence and causal factors for suicide vary between industrial and occupational groups. Limited research has been undertaken in relation to suicide by specific occupation. Notably, the construction industry in Australia has received very limited attention in the evidence-based research literature, despite some media attention in recent years. Focus groups were conducted with union delegates, QMBA representatives, and employees. Four major themes were revealed: Work conditions, interpersonal relationships, pressure, and suicide prevention.