By Greg Dunkle, STOBG Chief Operating Officer
Mental well-being is a key driver of health and safety in construction—and our people are developing strong initiatives to support each other when times get tough.
In construction, we often talk about being fit for duty: having the capacity to do our work safely and effectively. Importantly, fitness for duty means not only physical readiness, but also the mental well-being that allows us to do our best—on and off the job.
Our industry is increasingly focusing on how mental well-being is a critical factor in safety. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes that fatigue and stress can affect workplace performance, harm our health, and increase mental health challenges such as substance use disorders.
In construction, these concerns are pronounced. Tight schedules, complex coordination, and difficult problem-solving means that fatigue and stress can be key workplace challenges. Our industry sees higher-than-average rates of both suicide and fatal drug overdose, extending safety concerns beyond work hours.
Even so, we increasingly hear powerful stories of recovery, healing, and hope. I’m especially inspired by how the STO Building Group family
has come together to see that our people are truly fit for duty.
As an organization, we proudly take part in Mental Health Awareness Month in May and Construction Suicide Prevention Week in September. Our outstanding new Thrive 360° initiative, launched in 2025, emphasizes mental health throughout the entire year. Modeled on Gallup’s 5 Essential Elements of Well-Being, Thrive 360° champions well-being in all its forms by sharing resources and promoting a broader culture of care.
Additionally, our field leaders have developed strong ground-up initiatives, including standdowns, mental health toolbox talks, and Narcan trainings. Teams have also organized events like mental health first aid webinars and Hike for Hope events, showing how we can support each other during difficult moments.
These efforts have been a crucial reminder that focus and awareness are as critical as PPE and training. While strong initiatives are a key factor in building a culture of well-being, helping each other stay fit for duty can often be as simple as asking: “Are you ok?”
Power and hope come from knowing people will speak up, listen, and look out for one another when it matters most. That’s what gives real meaning to being fit for duty—and how we make a difference for each other.
