A New Definition of Workplace Safety

When we think about workplace safety in the architecture, engineering, and construction (A/E/C) industry, hard hats, harnesses, and steel-toed boots might come to mind first. But behind the physical safety protocols lies a quieter, sometimes invisible, challenge: mental health.

The A/E/C industry is grappling with a concerning reality—high rates of mental health issues among associates.

During the 2024 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Annual Meeting, RS&H associates partnered with various DOT representatives, mental health experts, and construction industry professionals to discuss the epidemic we face in our industry and how to keep the conversation going.

The Unique Challenges of the A/E/C Industry

Engineers and architects work on complex designs, while construction workers focus on executing them within limited windows. The stakes are high, and so is the stress.

This is especially true for those working on multi-phase projects that stretch over months or even years.

The stigma of appearing “weak” can discourage workers from seeking help.

Overcoming the Stigma

Talking about mental health isn’t always easy, but opening lines of communication within a workplace can make all the difference. Some ways to do this are to have one-on-one check-ins with associates or create employee resource groups to help foster relationships and build trust between associates who can relate to one another.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) have emerged as a lifeline for workers in many ways. These programs often include resources such as confidential counseling services, financial planning assistance, and legal advice. One of the best pieces of advice from the AASHTO session was to become familiar with your company EAP so that if you need assistance or you’re offering guidance to a coworker, you can articulate the process and make them feel comfortable and confident to get help.

Keep the Conversation Going

Clients and stakeholders look to us to help solve complex challenges. Our associates must be fully supported to create innovative and creative solutions to achieve meaningful outcomes that support our clients’ goals.

Driven to care is the foundation of RS&H.

It’s not just marketing fluff – we are driven to care about our clients, communities, and each other.

RS&H has taken up this cause to help break down barriers, not only to talk about mental health issues openly but also to act because every day, we strive to create a more connected future where everyone can thrive.

Caring, inclusivity, and integrity are three of RS&H’s core values; central to these is providing a supportive environment for our associates to do valuable work for our clients and the communities we serve.

Helpful Resources

RS&H has been at the forefront of our industry working to bring awareness to the ongoing battle of mental health. Below are a few helpful resources to keep the conversation going.

Beyond Blueprints Knowledge Session Recap – AASHTO Conference
Watch the full AASHTO mental health session
Live Your Life Well: Mental Health Awareness in the AEC Industry Panel Discussion
Addressing Mental Health in the A/E/C Industry – AASHTO Conference
OSHA Fatal Four

Mental Health in the AEC Series:

Addressing and Preventing Workplace Burnout
Sympathy vs Empathy
3 Tips to Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance