Facing Men’s Health in Construction

Men in the construction industry take on demanding work — long hours, physically intense tasks and often, dangerous conditions. But how often do they stop to check in on their health?

June is Men’s Health Month, part of an ongoing effort to educate men, boys and their families about the importance of regular disease prevention screenings and living healthier lives. Men face higher rates of serious health issues such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, heart disease and early mortality, and their average life expectancy is five years shorter than that of women.

Contracting crews often work under tight deadlines in high-pressure environments, where fatigue, hearing loss, chronic pain and mental stress are common. In many jobsite cultures, there’s still hesitation to speak up about health concerns or ask for help.

This year’s theme, “Closing the Empathy Gap,” encourages more understanding and compassion around men’s health, both physical and mental. Creating space for honest conversations at work can help break down stigmas and build stronger, safer crews.

Support your crew this month by:

• Encouraging routine checkups and preventive screenings
• Sharing health resources during toolbox talks
• Talking openly about stress, burnout, or physical wear and tear
• Being flexible with schedules when health needs come up

To learn more about Men’s Health Month and how to create a healthier workplace culture, visit the Men’s Health Network or the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).