SUPPORTING YOUR SAFETY


AGC of California, PCL Construction Team Up for Mental Health Awareness Stand Down at Chargers Training Facility


BY TRESTEN KEYS, AGC OF CALIFORNIA SAFETY AND REGULATORY MANAGER


O


n May 17, in a significant col- laborative effort, the AGC of California and PCL Construction


hosted a Mental Health Awareness Stand Down at PCL’s jobsite within the Los Angeles Chargers Training Facility in El Segundo, CA. Te event cast a spotlight on critical


mental health issues in the construction industry, including substance misuse disorders and the alarming suicide rates among workers. This initiative is part of a comprehensive effort to promote workplace safety and holistic wellness. For 45 minutes, all onsite work ceased,


and workers gathered for a comprehensive presentation focused on mental health awareness. This session was designed to educate participants on recognizing early signs of mental distress, engaging in proactive conversations about mental health, and integrating effective wellness practices into their daily routines. By uniting the efforts of AGC of Califor-


nia, PCL, and Youturn Health, the Stand Down aimed to cultivate a robust culture of support and understanding, reinforcing


the construction industry’s commitment to the mental and emotional well-being of its workforce. “Mental health challenges in our sector


are profound, manifesting in high rates of substance misuse and suicide,” said Peter Tateishi, CEO of AGC of California. “By partnering with PCL for this Stand Down, we aimed to propel the conversa- tion forward about mental health in the workplace. Together, we are mobilizing resources and strategies to embed the wellness of every worker into our daily safety practices.”


“Tis is a phenomenal opportunity


to break down some of the stigma that keeps so many people in the construc- tion industry from reaching out for help,” said Hamilton Baiden, CEO of Youturn Health, who spoke to PCL’s employees at the Stand Down event. “These men and women are tough – they have to be to work in construction – but it doesn’t mean they don’t struggle, and they need to know that it’s okay get support.” PCL not only hosted the event but also actively participates in shaping its own


program to addresses the nuanced needs of the industry. Recently, the company announced the adoption of Lyra Health, the leading provider of workforce mental health, into its U.S. benefits package. Te new integration offers all U.S. employees six complimentary therapy sessions and an array of other additional mental health resources. “I believe the foundation of every suc-


cessful project lies not only in ensuring physical safety but also in nurturing the mental well-being of our team,” comment- ed Michael Headrick, PCL vice president and district manager. “We are dedicat- ed to creating an environment where mental health is prioritized, and every employee feels supported and valued. We are grateful for our partnership with AGC of California and the opportunity to co-host an event that speaks to who we are as a company.” Te partnership between AGC of Cali- fornia and PCL Construction exemplifies a powerful model of collaboration where leadership and resources come together to enhance workers’ well-being.


CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR JULY/AUGUST 2024


21


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32