Industry collaboration to raise mental health awareness

Seven of the UK's biggest construction companies joined forces last week to hold a Contractor Collaboration Day at King's Cross, London, with a focus on health, safety and wellbeing. Kier, BAM, McLaren, Alandale Logistics, ISG, Midgard and Lendlease collectively organised the day which took place on May 15th at Lewis Cubitt Square. They invited suppliers to participate, including RVT.

RVT's stall showcased the latest health-protection equipment, including the company's brand-new dust suppression units. Site Manager Aiden Alexander said that the day had been useful in allowing him to 'see and operate the most up to date safety equipment.'

As the event ran alongside national Mental Health Awareness Week, many of the talks and activities concentrated on topics relating to psychological or emotional fitness. Up to a quarter of all long-term illnesses suffered by construction personnel are mental health based. Environmental irritants, such as prolonged exposure to loud, industrial noises or to working in extreme temperatures can contribute to stress but can be substantially lessened with the use of the correct equipment. RVT's Vern Harrington commented that 'health, including mental health, is of enormous importance to us, so we are pleased to have contributed to the Contractor Collaboration Day. It was a first-rate event that did much to raise the profile of safety initiatives and of mental wellbeing.'

The day also acted as an information exchange regarding PPE, tools, plant hire and site safety. Delegates enjoyed the opportunity to use a virtual tower crane simulator and a PPE station was set up to collect good quality PPE donations, to be sent to developing nations. Healthcare providers also attended to provide mini health MOT checks to delegates.

Over 35 suppliers displayed their services to the main seven contractor's workforces. Alan Blanchett of McLaren celebrated the 'exceptional' day's success, calling it a 'worthwhile' endeavour. RVT Group is pleased to see such industry investment in health-related events and looks forward to supporting the initiative next year.

RVT were pleased to show their support for the event by demonstrating the uses and benefits of a wide range of equipment.