MOVING MOUNTAINS


Building a Safer and Stronger Construction Industry


I


n construction, safety is more than a requirement — it is a promise we make to every worker, every family,


and every community we serve. The men and women of our industry build California’s infrastructure, schools, trans- portation systems, and communities. Protecting them must always remain our highest priority. Construction continues to be one of


the most demanding professions in the country. While the industry represents roughly 6-7% of the U.S. workforce, it accounts for a disproportionately high share of workplace fatalities. Recent federal data shows the construction and extraction sector experiences a fa- tality rate of about 13 deaths per 100,000 workers, compared with roughly 3.7 per 100,000 across all occupations. These statistics are a constant reminder that safety cannot be treated as a checklist — it must be a culture that guides every project, every day. The good news is that contractors


across California have made meaning- ful progress in recent years. Through stronger safety training, improved jobsite planning, and the use of new technolo- gies, many companies have significantly reduced injuries and incidents. Tese im- provements demonstrate what is possible when contractors, labor partners, and owners work together to prioritize safety.


Mental Health Is a Pressing Industry Challenge Today, the safety conversation must go beyond physical hazards. Mental health has emerged as one of the most press- ing challenges facing the construction workforce.


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CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR MAY/JUNE 2026


Studies show the suicide rate among


construction workers is among the highest of any profession. In recent years, the rate reached approximately 56 suicides per 100,000 workers, compared with about 32


Contractors across California are introducing mental health awareness programs, peer support initiatives, and employee assistance resources that help workers know they are not alone.


per 100,000 across all industries. In fact, research suggests that more construc- tion workers may die from suicide each year than from jobsite accidents. Tese numbers highlight the need to address the pressures that often accompany con- struction work — long hours, demanding schedules, and economic uncertainty. Our industry is beginning to con-


front this challenge directly. Contractors across California are introducing mental health awareness programs, peer support initiatives, and employee assistance resources that help workers know they are not alone. Tey are creating an envi- ronment where people feel comfortable asking for help is essential to building a stronger workforce. Safety also intersects with another critical issue in construction today: legal


and regulatory responsibility. Contrac- tors operate in a complex environment involving contract risk allocation, evolv- ing labor regulations, and strict safety compliance requirements. Strong safety programs are not only the right thing to do — they reduce liability, improve proj- ect performance, and strengthen trust with employees, owners and the public.


AGC Raises Bar for Worker Protection At AGC of California, we are committed to helping our members lead in these areas. Trough safety training programs, mental health awareness initiatives, and policy advocacy, AGC of California works to ensure our industry continues to raise the bar for worker protection and responsible project delivery. Te AGC of California Safety and Health Council has a strong subcommittee dedicated to the mental health/ wellness efforts. Member engagement is critical to that


effort. I encourage contractors across the state to stay involved and continue shaping the future of our industry. One upcoming opportunity is the AGC of Cal- ifornia Legislative Day on May 5–6, 2026 in Sacramento, where industry leaders will meet with policymakers to discuss workforce development, infrastructure investment, and policies that support safe and responsible construction. Construction has always been about


building the future. By strengthening our safety culture, supporting the well-being of our workforce, and working together as an industry, we can ensure that the people who build California’s communities are protected every step of the way.


Ryan J. Aukerman


Ryan J. Aukerman, President , AGC of California


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