Construction Safety Week, an annual industrywide education and awareness event originally formed in 2014, is set for May 3-7, 2021. The weeklong event is designed to inspire everyone in the industry to be leaders in safety. This year’s theme is “Holistic Safety - Be Present. Be Focused. Be Safe.”

Construction is a physically and mentally demanding occupation. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates compared to other industries. In addition, the pandemic has intensified the ongoing issue of substance abuse across the industry, particularly opioid addiction. These serious issues can cause even the best worker to put others at risk and a momentary lapse in focus can lead to catastrophic results. Less noticeable things like prolonged stress, anxiety, financial concerns or tensions with a family member, a boss or coworker can
cause workers to lose focus.

“We hope to help everyone in the industry recognize and address these issues,” said Michael McKelvy, Safety Week 2021 chair and Gilbane Building Company president and CEO. “We’ve built in the mental wellness focus as a vital enhancement to our mission this year. Safety Week resources and tools will enable industry leaders to strengthen their safety culture, raise awareness about holistic safety, and address both the seen and unseen risks that impact our ability to be present and focused while we work, both in the field and in office environments.”

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) is a signature sponsor of Construction Safety Week for a third year.

"This campaign is a crucial part of our association’s efforts to improve construction safety,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America. “We will be encouraging member firms to put a special emphasis on their safety programs during the week.”

Construction Safety Week encourages all construction companies to participate in this important industry initiative. Firms can visit  ConstructionSafetyWeek.com to download planning resources such as Safety Week logos and accompanying communication assets. Bookmark the site as educational materials are continuously being updated. Due to ongoing Covid-19 protocols, Safety Week participants will host a variety of smaller and virtual events to promote construction industry safety across the country.