VIMHS
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society
Talking Tailgate Toolkit – substance use education in construction
Talking Tailgate Toolkit – substance use education in construction
Talking Tailgate Toolkit – substance use education in construction
Monday 8th April 2024
Rory Kumala discusses the Tailgate Toolkit, a programme aimed at tackling substance use and mental health in the construction industry.
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Get the buttons here!How Construction Workers are Tackling Substance Use: The Tailgate Toolkit
Episode Overview
- Tailgate Toolkit includes mandatory morning meetings on substance use and mental health.
- Supervisory training helps employers support their staff.
- Support groups offer a safe space for workers to share experiences.
- Resource packages provide essential information and contacts.
- The programme aims to break down stigma and promote workplace well-being.
We're not here to break people. We're not here to cause them pain.
The construction industry might not be the first place you think of when discussing substance use education, but that's exactly where Rory Kumala, CEO of the Vancouver Island Construction Association, is making waves. In this episode of People First Radio, Kumala talks about the Tailgate Toolkit programme, an initiative aimed at tackling substance use, mental health, and pain management in the construction sector.
With alarming statistics showing that a significant number of overdose deaths occur among those working in trades, this programme couldn't be more timely. Kumala explains that the Tailgate Toolkit is built around four key components. First, there's the 'tailgate talk', a mandatory morning meeting where workers gather to discuss safety and, now, issues like substance use and mental health. This approach ensures that everyone gets the information they need, breaking down the stigma that often surrounds these topics.
Then there's supervisory training, which equips employers with the tools to support their staff effectively. The third component is a support group facilitated by the Umbrella Society, offering a safe space for workers to share their experiences and seek help. Finally, there's a resource package tailored to different regions, providing essential information and contact details for local support services.
Kumala shares some hard-hitting truths about the culture in construction, where a 'work hard, play hard' mentality often leads to risky behaviours. Pain management is another big issue, with many turning to substances to cope with the physical demands of their jobs. The Tailgate Toolkit aims to address these challenges head-on by providing education and resources directly on-site. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how industries can take proactive steps to support their workers' well-being.
Whether you're in construction or another field, the insights shared here offer valuable lessons on creating a healthier, more supportive work environment. So why not tune in and see what you can learn from the Tailgate Toolkit?