America's Work Force Union Podcast

What can be done about the construction worker suicide epidemic?

Written by awfblog | May 25, 2022

Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT) Executive Director Pete Ielmini joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed efforts to address construction worker suicide, and the resources available to protect the mental health of union members.

Sadly, five times as many construction workers die by suicide than are injured on the job.

Ielmini explained how the Insulators LMCT is developing a task force to create effective actions to address the problem, including a training program for labor leaders on how to address substance abuse, mental health and suicide concerns among Insulators. He also touched on the importance of Employee Assistance Programs.

Ielmini also discussed proposed legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Linda Sánchez  (D-Calf.) that if passed, would incentivize mechanical insulation energy audits.

Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.