The incidence and causal factors for suicide vary between industrial and occupational groups. Limited research has been undertaken in relation to suicide by specific occupation. Notably, the construction industry in Australia has received very limited attention in the evidence-based research literature, despite some media attention in recent years. Previous studies internationally have shown that construction workers tend to have a high suicide rate, but this is sometimes nullified when factors such as marital status and gender are taking into consideration. In the Queensland Commercial Buildi
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The incidence and causal factors for suicide vary between industrial and occupational groups. Limited research has been undertaken in relation to suicide by specific occupation. Notably, the construction industry in Australia has received very limited attention in the evidence-based research literature, despite some media attention in recent years. Previous studies internationally have shown that construction workers tend to have a high suicide rate, but this is sometimes nullified when factors such as marital status and gender are taking into consideration. In the Queensland Commercial Building Construction Industry (CBCI), young employees (15-24 years) had very high suicide rates (58.6 deaths per 100,000 population). This was 2.39 and 1.93 times greater than the working-aged male population in Australia and Queensland, respectively. The working-aged male (i.e. 15-64 year olds) suicide rate in the CBCI remained significantly elevated across the entire seven years of investigation (1995-2001) when compared to Australian counterparts, but not against the Queensland cohort.
Focus groups were conducted with union delegates, [Queensland Master Builders Association] QMBA representatives, and employees. Four major themes were revealed: Work conditions, interpersonal relationships, pressure, and suicide prevention. Long working hours were revealed as being a source of stress at work and at home. There appears to be a culture within the industry that endorses heavy alcohol use and bullying behaviours (directed towards apprentices specifically). The lack of job security was a cause of stress for employees. Due to the male dominance of the industry, workmates won't talk about their problems with their peers. Some CBCI members reportedly had financial management issues that placed a strain on their work and home situations. A series of recommendations for initiatives to help reduce suicidality and improve resilience within the industry are provided, based on the results revealed in the current and previous investigations.
Excerpts from publication.
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