Among U.S. workforces, the construction industry has the lowest rate of workers willing to be vaccinated. Something we should be asking ourselves is “Why?”
It’s demeaning to the construction industry when statistics indicate we are less-educated and therefore make uninformed decisions about COVID-19 vaccination. Many construction workers say they work outside; not in cramped offices where one sneeze can contaminate the air for 15 people in seconds.
We feel automatically protected from some diseases because we work in a healthier environment. That’s misinformation. One study revealed between March-May 2020 the highest numbers of deaths from COVID-19 occurred among construction industry workers.
Social media has spread misinformation faster than the pandemic itself. It’s our job to share fact-based, solid information with our co-workers and employees. That’s why United Contractors developed “Roll Up Your Sleeves,” a resource website for construction industry contractors and leaders.
How You Can Increase Vaccinations in the Construction Industry
A Construction Dive survey found 93% of construction industry employers aren’t offering incentives for the vaccination, but they are encouraging it.
As a contractor and employer, your encouragement can be pivotal. You can coordinate with other companies to coordinate an onsite project vaccination event. (Then make sure you and the team leads are seen first in line for the vaccine.)
Communicate vaccine information with your crew regularly. “Make vaccines a tailgate topic,” says VaccinateConstruction.com. Ensure unions are on board with in-the-field concerns about the vaccine and verify your policies are consistent with union agreements.
Go to https://vaccinateconstruction.com/contractor-covid-19-vaccination-resources to access resources. Some of the information is in English and Spanish and includes:
- COVID-19 compliance for employers
- COVID-19 vaccine facts
- Myths vs. facts
- Printable, key messages/materials
- Sample employer newsletter
- Sample letter to employees
- Social media toolkit
- Vaccination webinar
- Vaccine presentation/slides and PowerPoint presentation
The Power of Information
Construction Monitor building permit data is fact-based, solid information, too. And it’s got powerful business-building potential when you know how to use it. Construction Monitor professionals can show you how. Call 800-925-6085 or contact us today.