How Welfare Units Can Improve Mental Health in Construction

It’s no secret that the construction industry is known for its high-pressure work environment. Tight project deadlines, long hours and physically demanding work mean site teams often find themselves under great pressure, which can lead to stress and anxiety.

A survey conducted by a UK charity, Mates in Mind, of employed construction workers revealed that nearly half of those surveyed said they struggle to talk about their mental health.* While 44% have worries about their workload. The construction industry has traditionally had a ‘tough’ culture, which has contributed to a stigma around mental health. This stigma often results in preventing workers from talking about their mental health or seeking support, which ultimately leads to more stress.

Addressing these mental health challenges in the construction industry and on site, can begin with creating a welcoming work environment and supportive work culture. This World Mental Health Day, 10th October 2024, we’re committed to being a part of the change and raising awareness of good mental health in construction and the important part that effective welfare units can play in this.

Why is good mental health on construction sites important?

Construction workers dealing with anxiety and high-level stress often find that it affects their work performance and safety on sites, possibly leading to accidents or injuries. When mental health issues are overlooked, workers may take more sick leave and this can also lead to a shortage of staff on site, therefore delaying completion of projects.

With more than 50% of UK builders admitting to struggling with mental health**, it’s crucial to prioritise welfare and wellbeing on site. Our welfare units are designed to enhance the wellbeing of workers, and create a comfortable environment, ultimately leading to a happier workforce and boosting productivity on site.

What is an Oasis welfare unit?

An Oasis welfare unit is a portable and self-contained welfare facility used on construction sites, offering necessary amenities for workers. These units are designed specifically to enhance workers’ wellbeing by providing a range of facilities that contribute to their comfort and hygiene, such as, heating systems for a comfortable environment, canteen facilities, drying and changing rooms, space-efficient office and meeting rooms, washroom facilities and inclusive toilets.

Oasis welfare units are places where workers can take breaks, relax, and recharge, reducing stress during the working day. The units use low emission and low noise technology combined with smart telemetry to ensure quiet, trouble-free operation, and cleaner air too.

Site welfare with comfortable seating areas, natural lighting, and recreational spaces shows an employer’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of workers. Discover our range of Oasis Welfare units;

• EcoLogic Solar: These fully self-contained welfare units have proven results of 95.2% carbon-free renewable electrical energy and 98.7% silent across the whole fleet. This innovative solar welfare unit is highly energy efficient and operates quietly, enhancing the wellbeing of workers on site.
• EcoMax Solar: This range offers a unique double-stacked welfare unit setup for sites, offering a spacious top level for flexible office and meeting space, in addition to welfare facilities on the ground level. It provides construction workers with a comfortable and efficient workspace.
• Vision Solar: Our Vision Solar range includes the Vision Solar Access, the first self-contained 2+1 toilet block of its kind, featuring a fully accessible toilet facility for construction sites. This high-quality and inclusive toilet solution improves accessibility and inclusivity for all.

All of our Oasis Welfare units have a 24/7 drying and changing room that operates silently overnight reducing noise pollution that also keeps the neighbours happy.

Access to quality welfare facilities plays a crucial role in empowering workers and supporting their wellbeing.

For more information speak to a member of our team on 01268 280500 or email sales@advante.co.uk

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Sources

*Mates in Mind 

**Comfy Workers