When we think about workplace safety, we usually picture hard hats, high-vis jackets, Safe Pass cards, and risk assessments.
But what about the risks you can’t see? Burnout. Stress. Isolation. Anxiety.
These are just as real and just as dangerous as physical hazards, whether you’re on-site or behind a desk.
Time to Talk About Mental Health at Work
At Ayrton Group, safety is part of who we are. But as we mark both European Public Health Week and Mental Health Europe Week this May, we’re focusing on something that doesn’t always get enough attention:
Mental health in the workplace.
An Industry-Wide Challenge
Construction, logistics, engineering — all industries known for long hours, tight deadlines, and tough conditions. But what’s often left unsaid is the mental toll that comes with it.
In male-dominated sectors especially, there’s still a reluctance to open up or admit when something’s not right.
The numbers say it all:
- 1 in 4 people in Ireland will face a mental health issue in their lifetime
- In the UK, construction workers are 3 times more likely to die by suicide than the national average
- The construction sector has one of the highest suicide rates of any industry
- Almost 60% of workers have felt burned out in the past year
- In the UK, 1 in 6 employees experiences mental health problems at work
These aren’t just stats — they’re people. They’re our co-workers, our friends, and sometimes ourselves.
What Support Should Actually Look Like
Mental health isn’t just something you deal with after a crisis. Like physical safety, it should be part of the plan from day one.
At Ayrton, we don’t see wellbeing as a side issue. It’s a core part of how we operate — whether we’re supplying staff, working on a site, or partnering with clients.
We believe in building a culture where people can:
- Speak up when they’re struggling
- Take a breather without guilt
- Ask for support — and actually get it
Here’s How the Industry Can Do Better:
- Mental Health First Aid training – just like CPR, but for mental health
- Flexible work schedules – especially important since COVID
- Open conversations – toolbox talks, team briefings, peer check-ins
- Confidential support – Employee Assistance Programmes and helplines that actually help
Mental Health Isn’t Just the “Right” Thing — It’s Smart Business
Looking after your team’s mental wellbeing doesn’t just tick a box. It leads to:
- Fewer sick days
- Better staff retention
- Safer, more focused workers
- Happier teams who actually want to be there
When you think about it, a clear head and strong morale can be just as important as safety boots or a harness.
It Starts With a Conversation
You don’t need a big mental health strategy to make a difference. Sometimes, it’s the little things that matter most. So this month, during Mental Health Week, try this:
- Ask someone how they’re doing — and actually listen
- Check in on the team member who’s been quiet
- Let people know it’s OK to say, “I’m not doing great today.”
- Be the kind of leader who leads with empathy, not ego
Because sometimes the best bit of safety gear isn’t PPE — it’s simply being there for each other.
Final Word: Safety Is More Than Physical
We’ll always be the experts in managing physical risks — it’s what we do. But we’re also committed to championing mental safety too.
This May, let’s not just build safer sites. Let’s build stronger, more supportive workplaces.
Because the best teams aren’t just skilled — They’re supported.
