The importance of stand-downs

Posted February 27, 2026

By John Dowd

Business Representative/Recovery Coordinator for DC 35
Director, IUPAT Helping Hand Program

Jobsite safety stand-downs play a vital role in changing the culture of construction. Jobsite safety can be as simple as creating an intentional pause on the jobsite for a moment for reflection, communication, and connection, allowing workers time to discuss safety issues and any mental health struggles they could be dealing with. The stand-downs reinforce the message that mental health struggles are common, treatable, and worthy of the same attention as any physical risk. A stand-down provides a judgment-free space where workers can speak openly about mental health and substance use disorder, two topics that are often stigmatized in the industry. By normalizing these conversations, stand-downs help break down the barriers that keep workers silent, reducing the fear of being seen as weak or unreliable.

Providing time for workers to connect with any Employee Assistance or Labor Assistance Professionals that the contractors bring in emphasizes leadership’s commitment to a healthy workplace. This commitment fosters trust, encourages peer support, and strengthens labor cohesion. Stand-downs have played an extremely important role for me in letting our membership know that help is available and where to access it.

National Hotlines:

Suicide Prevention: 988
Substance Abuse: 1-800-327-505
Behavioral Health: 1-833-773-2445
Domestic Violence: 1-800-799-7233
Narcotics Anonymous: 1-866-624-3578
Alcoholics Anonymous: 617-426-9444
Gambling Anonymous: 1-855-222-5542
Al-Anon: 1-888-425-2666
Learn to Cope (family support system): 508-738-5148

District Council 35 Resources:

Modern Assistance: 617-774-0331
Immediate 24-hour help line: 800-878-2004

In Crisis:

John Dowd: 617-505-2631
Ann Avelar: 617-659-6467
Jim McCann: 781-752-8929

Peer Support:

Jimmy K. 617-905-1567
Melissa S. 781-708-6877
Tom G. 857-247-1931
Pat C. 617-217-1665
Jennifer C. 508-245-4460
Scott D. 781-526-2032
Jim C. 339-788-0888