Construction Safety Week 2025 is an industry-wide event that increases the awareness of workplace safety in the construction sector. Companies can engage by organizing safety training sessions, inviting guest speakers, and conducting comprehensive on-site safety inspections. Participation in regional and national events, such as the Construction Safety & Health Conference and The Future of EHS Expo, offers opportunities to explore safety innovations and best practices.

What Construction Safety Week means for the industry

Initiated in 2014, Construction Safety Week was established by a coalition of construction firms aiming to elevate safety awareness and practices across the industry. This collective effort has led to several key initiatives:

• Safety Stand-Downs: Temporary work stoppages dedicated to engaging workers in focused safety discussions.
• Safety Leadership Training: Programs designed to empower managers and supervisors to actively promote and implement safety protocols.
• Stop Work Authority Programs: Policies that enable workers to halt operations when they identify unsafe conditions, fostering a proactive safety culture.

Why safety in construction matters

The construction industry remains one of the most hazardous sectors, with a significant number of injuries and fatalities reported annually. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 1,069 fatal occupational injuries in the U.S. construction industry in 2022, accounting for 19% of all worker deaths that year. Notably, more than 65% of these fatalities resulted from falls, being struck by objects, electrocutions, and being caught in/between incidents. 

Here are some other notable stats to consider:

• Non-fatal injuries are also prevalent. In 2022, the construction sector reported 169,600 non-fatal injuries and illnesses, with 42% leading to days away from work. The average number of days away due to such incidents was 11, showing the impact injuries have on productivity.
• In Texas, USA, the construction industry saw a 20% reduction in injury claims in 2024 compared to 2023. Despite this improvement, framing contractors experienced a 200% increase in claims, primarily due to falls, indicating areas where safety measures need reinforcement. 
• In the UK, the construction sector reported 51 employee fatalities and three public fatalities in the 2023/24 period, with falls from height being the leading cause, accounting for 31 of these deaths. Additionally, 4,050 non-fatal injuries were reported by employers. However, estimates suggest the actual number of non-fatal injuries could be as high as 47,000 annually, considering unreported cases. 
• The financial implications are also substantial. Construction injuries cost approximately $11.5 billion annually, with $4 billion attributed to fatalities and $7 billion to non-fatal injuries. Workers’ compensation claims for non-fatal falls alone amount to $2.5 billion each year. 

Beyond physical injuries, mental health concerns are pressing. The suicide rate among male construction workers is 75% higher than the national average, and there is a 5:1 ratio of deaths by suicide to deaths from accidents in the industry. Additionally, construction workers are six to seven times more likely to die of an overdose compared to other professions.

How companies can get involved in Construction Safety Week

Plan safety events

Organizing safety events during Construction Safety Week encourages active participation from workers. Consider hosting workshops, toolbox talks, and hands-on demonstrations tailored to address specific hazards your teams encounter daily.

Bring in guest safety speakers and experts

Inviting experienced safety professionals to discuss industry best practices can provide valuable insights. Experts can share real-world scenarios and actionable tips, fostering a deeper understanding of safety protocols among workers.

Conduct a comprehensive safety check

Use this week to perform an in-depth safety audit of your job sites. Review equipment, evaluate work areas, and identify potential hazards. Engaging supervisors and workers in the inspection process promotes accountability and awareness.

Provide free training resources

Offer free safety training materials to ensure workers are up to date on critical safety practices. These can include online courses, instructional videos, and printed guides focusing on areas like fall protection, equipment handling, and hazard communication.

Promote mental health and wellness initiatives

Recognize that mental health is an essential component of overall safety. Provide resources, hold discussions on stress management, and encourage open conversations about mental well-being. Offering access to counseling services or mental health hotlines can make a significant impact.

Join national and regional events

Participate in industry events that align with Construction Safety Week. Engaging with national and local expos allows companies to stay informed about the latest safety advancements and network with like-minded organizations.

Become a sponsor of a safety event

Sponsoring safety events demonstrates a company’s commitment to worker well-being. Consider supporting local safety expos, industry webinars, or training workshops. Sponsorships also increase brand visibility and reinforce a safety-first culture.

Top 10 safety events and expos to attend in the United States

1. Construction Safety & Health Conference

Held in Minneapolis, MN, this conference focuses on safety innovations, regulatory updates, and best practices. Attendees can participate in workshops, expert panels, and interactive demonstrations addressing critical safety concerns across the entire industry.

2. The Future of EHS

This event in St. Louis, MO, explores emerging technologies and their role in enhancing environmental, health, and safety (EHS) practices. It includes case studies, discussions on AI-driven safety monitoring, and networking opportunities with industry leaders.

3. Operations Maintenance and Safety Conference

Scheduled in Nashville, TN, this conference emphasizes safety in operations and maintenance environments. The event highlights best practices for managing construction activities with high-risk tasks and includes hands-on workshops to help management and workers make safe choices.

4. DEKRA Safety in Action Conference

This Orlando, Florida event promotes behavioral safety practices that improve workplace culture and core values. It offers interactive sessions where attendees can learn how to cultivate a safety-conscious workforce with a shared commitment to implement safety and health programs.

5. Global DPS 2025

The Global Digital Process Safety (DPS) Conference in Dallas, Texas, focuses on improving safety through digital advancements. Attendees will explore innovative solutions such as real-time hazard monitoring, predictive analytics, and automated safety protocols. The event also highlights how digital tools can enhance risk management in high-hazard industries.

6. Utility Safety Conference & Expo

Taking place in Charleston, SC, this expo is tailored for utility sector professionals. It covers essential topics like electrical safety, hazard recognition, and confined space protocols. Attendees can participate in workshops, product demonstrations, and hands-on training sessions aimed at enhancing safety practices in the utility industry.

7. AIHA Connect

AIHA Connect, held in Kansas City, MO, is a must-attend for industrial hygiene and occupational health professionals. The event provides an opportunity to stay current with the latest research, standards, and technologies affecting worker safety. It also offers in-depth discussions on occupational safety and control strategies.

8. ASSP Safety Conference

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Safety Conference, hosted in Orlando, FL, brings together safety leaders to discuss strategies for reducing workplace injuries. The conference offers hands-on workshops, keynote sessions, and networking events where attendees can exchange ideas and solutions to improve safety standards.

9. National Safety Council Safety Congress & Expo

Held in Denver, CO, the National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo is the largest annual event dedicated to workplace safety. The expo features a wide range of educational sessions, interactive exhibits, and expert-led discussions on reducing workplace injuries and fatalities.

10. EHS Today Safety Leadership Conference

The EHS Today Safety Leadership Conference, taking place in Phoenix, AZ, focuses on equipping industry leaders with the tools and knowledge to drive safety improvements. Attendees can engage in workshops and hear from top safety professionals about practical strategies for fostering a culture of safety.

Bottom line

Construction Safety Week 2025 is an opportunity for companies to develop a strong safety culture, educate team members, and reduce potential risks on their job sites. With numerous expos and conferences offering valuable resources and insights, construction professionals can stay ahead of industry best practices and promote safer environments for all workers. 

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