October: National Depression Awareness Month

Depression (formally called a depressive disorder) is a common mental health condition impacting millions of people each year. Many individuals do not recognize the symptoms or gravity of depression, leading to missed opportunities to get connected to treatment and prolongment of needless or excessive suffering. Depression can create challenges in all areas of life, including at work and at home. Prevalence rates are thought to be elevated amongst construction workers, making education and awareness all the more important. The IUBAC Member Assistance Program (MAP) is here to support all members and their loved ones who may be experiencing symptoms of depression. Help is available by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK, M-F, 8am-7pm ET. 

Stay Safe In The Heat

BAC members across the country regularly work in conditions outdoors in direct sunlight or in enclosed spaces that are not climate-controlled. This leads construction workers to suffer from heat-related illnesses and, in severe cases, death.

Before working in extreme heat, review the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) checklists: Overall Heat-Illness Prevention Program Checklist for Construction and Daily Heat-Illness Prevention Checklist for Construction. 

OSHA's Heat Illness Prevention campaign educates employers and workers on heat hazards and provides resources to keep workers safe.