Nova Scotia Construction Industry Faces Mental Health Challenges, New Survey Finds

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 7, 2025

DARTMOUTH, NS – Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS), in partnership with research firm WorkInsights, has released the results of the first Nova Scotia-focused study on mental health in the construction sector. Conducted in spring 2024, the study was commissioned to help bridge gap for data specific to Nova Scotia.

The survey included 1,171 construction workers from across the province. The findings reveal that high stress levels are at the centre of some of the industry’s leading mental and physical health challenges.

Over 36% of the workforce experience high or very high stress, directly affecting productivity, safety, and turnover.
High-stress environments lead to up to 60% more workplace incidents.
40% of the workforce is currently considering leaving due to stress, increasing costs and disrupting operations.

“This report confirms what we have been hearing anecdotally,” said MJ MacDonald, CEO of Construction Safety Nova Scotia. “While studies from across Canada and the United States have highlighted mental health challenges in construction, this is the first time we have data specific to Nova Scotia. Now, we can clearly see how our workers are doing and, more importantly, how to help them. This report provides a concrete roadmap for change.”

Additional findings include:

33% of workplace stress is directly linked to manager interactions, making supervisor support a key factor in worker wellbeing.
37% of employees are dissatisfied with their relationship with their manager.
Positive manager relationships reduce turnover risk by 45% and lower stress-related impacts.
26% of respondents regularly use alcohol or drugs to cope with stress. Workers who rely on substances are 157% more likely to report poor mental health, highlighting the urgent need for improved support systems on the job.
35% of workers report experiencing discrimination or harassment, nearly doubling their risk of poor mental health.
50% of workers do not feel comfortable discussing mental health with colleagues.

“These numbers reflect systemic issues affecting safety, productivity, and retention across the construction sector,” said Michael DeVenney, Founder of WorkInsights. “What workers are telling us is that they want healthier, more respectful, and more supportive workplaces.”

Despite these challenges, the study also identified a strong foundation within Nova Scotia’s construction workforce. Over 81% of workers find genuine purpose in their work, 85% clearly understand their job expectations, and 74% feel they are part of a cohesive team. These positive elements demonstrate that many workers are engaged, providing a solid platform for employers to build and strengthen mental health supports that promote healthier, more resilient workplaces.

The report, titled Creating Mentally Healthy Workplaces, is available now at constructionsafetyns.ca/mentallyhealthyworkplaces. It includes detailed analysis and three high-impact recommendations:

Train and support managers, who are the most influential factor in worker mental health.
Expand access to therapy, especially through online platforms.
Provide managers with the time and resources they need to lead psychologically safe teams.

In response, CSNS is expanding its current mental health programming with new training programs and resources launching later this year, including:

Three new courses:
- Occupational Mental Health (e-learning for all workers)
- Opening the Door to Support (e-learning for supervisors)
- The Working Mind for the Trades (training for leaders)
Establish an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) in partnership with Merit Nova Scotia to provide mental health services for small and mid-sized construction companies
New toolbox talks

“Addressing the mental health challenges in our industry will require leadership at all levels, but most importantly, that leadership needs to come from individual employers,” said MacDonald. “Creating a mentally healthy workplace starts at the company level, with a commitment to listening to workers and taking meaningful action. As the leading safety resource for the industry, CSNS will continue to expand education, training, and support systems to meet our members’ needs, but it’s up to employers to take the lead and use these tools to build safer, healthier, and more resilient workplaces.”

The survey had 1,171 respondents from across the Nova Scotia construction sector, representing diverse roles, company sizes and specializations. The quality of the methodology is reflected in the standard deviation of 0.51.

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ABOUT CONSTRUCTION SAFETY NOVA SCOTIA
Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS) is an industry-founded and industry-funded not-for-profit association focused on improving occupational health and safety in the construction sector. CSNS is a highly regarded leader in OHS services with over 300,000 students trained in health and safety and over 1,050 firms attaining the association’s Certificate of Recognition (COR®) safety certification. The board of directors, OHS advisors, and CSNS staff work towards a safer construction industry by engaging with its membership to reduce injuries and improve safety culture. The association is passionate about saving lives and reducing injuries through industry-tailored instruction and advice. To learn more, visit constructionsafetyns.ca.

ABOUT WORKINSIGHTS
WorkInsights is an analytics and research consultancy specializing in workforce strategy and employee experience. Founded by Michael DeVenney, WorkInsights helps organizations deeply understand employee perspectives across critical areas including workplace mental health, productivity, and readiness for AI adoption. By leveraging customized surveys, advanced analytics, and industry expertise, WorkInsights delivers actionable insights that enable companies to strengthen their workforce, improve operational performance, and strategically integrate technology. To learn more, visit workinsights.io.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Shannon Kehoe
Director, Strategy & Engagement
Cell: 902-209-5658
Email: skehoe@constructionsafetyns.ca

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Ryan Quinn, CRSP, with his Top 25 Under 40 Award at the OHS Canada Honours event on September 26, 2024.

October 1, 2024

Dartmouth, NS – Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS) is proud to announce that Ryan Quinn, Manager of Safety Services, has been named one of OHS Canada’s Top 25 Under 40 for 2024. This prestigious national award recognizes emerging leaders who are making significant contributions to the field of occupational health and safety (OHS). Ryan was honored on September 26 at the 2024 OHS Canada Honours event in Toronto, ON.

“Ryan is an integral part of our team, and we are thrilled to see his work recognized at the national level,” said MJ MacDonald, CEO of CSNS. “His leadership and commitment to the safety and well-being of our members has set a high standard within our organization and across the industry.”

Ryan Quinn has been with CSNS for over 10 years, ensuring construction companies across Nova Scotia have the tools, resources, and training needed to keep workers safe. He played a pivotal role in CSNS’s transition to expanding online Certificate of Recognition (COR®) courses, identifying the need to better serve remote areas and underserved communities. He also spearheaded the development of CSNS’s OHS Guide to Legislation app, making the Nova Scotia OHS Act more accessible for the construction sector. As Manager of Safety Services, Ryan leads key safety programs, and a team of safety advisors dedicated to reducing workplace injuries and improving safety culture throughout the province. Ryan holds the Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP®) certification.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from OHS Canada,” said Quinn. “Working with CSNS to help create safer workplaces for the Nova Scotia construction industry is incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and the leadership at CSNS, and I’m excited to continue this important work.”

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Shannon Kehoe
Manager, Marketing and Communications
Cell: 902-209-5658
Email: skehoe@constructionsafetyns.ca

September 5, 2024

DARTMOUTH, NS — Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS) acknowledges the release of the Workers’ Compensation Review Committee’s report on the state of Nova Scotia’s workers’ compensation system.

“Injury prevention is paramount when it comes to reducing time-loss claims and ensuring the well-being of our workforce,” said MJ MacDonald, CEO of CSNS. “This report reaffirms the critical role that industry organizations play in leading change within their sectors and preventing injury.”

Currently celebrating its 30th anniversary, CSNS was founded in 1994 by sector leaders to reduce the number and severity of safety related incidents in the construction industry. CSNS has trained over 300,000 individuals in occupational health and safety and continues to set the standard for safety excellence in the construction sector. In 2023, the injury rate for the construction industry was 1.52 per 100 workers, the lowest injury rate ever recorded for the industry.

With several major construction projects on the horizon for Nova Scotia, CSNS is focused on fostering a safe, healthy, and productive workforce. “As we look ahead to the future of construction in Nova Scotia, our top goal remains clear: to lead the charge in making our industry the safest in the country,” added MacDonald. “We are encouraged by this review of the workers’ compensation system, and will be looking for meaningful, measurable and verifiable outcomes to better serve and protect our members and all Nova Scotians.”

CSNS is committed to supporting system improvement as a collaborative partner of the WCB and the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration. It will continue to work closely with industry partners, and government to advance workplace safety in Nova Scotia.

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ABOUT CONSTRUCTION SAFETY NOVA SCOTIA

Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS) is an industry-founded and industry-funded not-for-profit association focused on improving occupational health and safety in the construction sector. CSNS is a highly regarded leader in OHS services with over 300,000 students trained in health and safety and over 1,050 firms attaining the association’s Certificate of Recognition (COR®) safety certification. The board of directors, OHS advisors, and CSNS staff work towards a safer construction industry by engaging with its membership to reduce injuries and improve safety culture. The association is passionate about saving lives and reducing injuries through industry-tailored instruction and advice.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Shannon Kehoe
Manager, Marketing and Communications
Cell: 902-209-5658
Email: skehoe@constructionsafetyns.ca

Milton Howley, Chair of the CSNS Board of Directors, approaches the podium at the CSNS AGM. Board members MJ MacDonald (centre) and Don Maillett (right) are seated on the stage in front of meeting attendees.

May 23, 2024

Industry leader celebrates 30th anniversary and recognizes safety excellence amongst Nova Scotian companies.

DARTMOUTH, NS — Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS) held its 30^th annual general meeting on May 16, 2024. During the meeting, the membership approved 16 new and returning directors, with a gender split of 50 per cent.

“Over the last four years, the Board of Directors set a goal to increase gender diversity and representation on the board. With the approval of our most recent slate of Directors, now 50 per cent of our board members are women,” said Milton Howley, Chair of the Board. “As the construction industry and skilled trades continue to grow and attract more people into the industry, we are proud to have a board with strong female representation.”

The Board of Directors is comprised of representatives from across the construction industry, reflecting both our founding members and members at large. The Board of Directors for 2024 are:

Canadian Home Builders Association – Nova Scotia: Crystal Ingram &Tanya Henley
Atlantic Concrete Association: Ashley Wall
Construction Association of Nova Scotia: Heather Cruickshanks & Duncan Williams
Department of Public Works: Don Maillet
Mainland Nova Scotia Building and Construction Trades Council: Brittany Colburn
Nova Scotia Road Builders Association: Dan O’Connor
Cape Breton Island Building and Construction Trades Council: Ernie Dalton
Nova Scotia Power: Milton Howley
Members at Large: Colleen Brushett, Paul Dube, Tyler Gould, Jackie Hatt, JoAnne Ortega & David Wassmansdorf

In addition to confirming its Board of Directors, CSNS launched their 30^th anniversary celebrations, welcomed keynote speaker Candace Carnahan. and announced the winners of the 2024 Safety Awards. This year, the awards honoured 10 companies and three individuals who are demonstrating a significant commitment to occupational health and safety in the construction industry in Nova Scotia.

SAFETY AWARD WINNERS

Women in Safety Leadership Award

This award is presented to a woman in health and safety who exemplifies the highest standards for safety leadership, going above and beyond to create change. This year’s winner is Andrea Giles, project manager & safety coordinator at Solar Ascent.

Honourable Mention: Jessica Hunkin, health & safety advisor, of Trinity Energy Group.

Safety Champion Award

This award is presented to an individual who consistently demonstrates outstanding safety excellence and support for their industry peers. This year’s winner is Mervyn McClay, safety manager at Data Wiring Solutions Inc.

Best Safety Culture Award

This award recognizes excellence in an organization’s OHS culture, with strong safety leadership, a commitment to continuous improvement, and employees who take accountability for safety. This year’s winner is MacKinnon and Olding.

Workplace Mental Health Award

This award recognizes a company that prioritizes worker mental health and understands that mental health is just as important as physical health. The winner is Able Electric.

CHAIR’S AWARDS OF SAFETY EXCELLENCE

The Chair’s Awards of Safety Excellence honour the best of the best. These awards are determined through a combination of Workers Compensation Board (WCB) statistics (injury rate and experience rating) and external Certificate of Recognition (COR®) audit scores over the past three years. The Most Improved award is based on the improvement in the last 3 years of a company’s WCB injury rate and experience rating.

Chair’s Award for Safety Excellence – Owner/Operator

James Price Enterprises Limited

Chair’s Award for Safety Excellence – Small Business

Gary d’Entremont Excavating

Chair’s Award for Safety Excellence – Intermediate Business

Tri-Ex Construction Ltd

Honourable Mention: George F. MacDonald and Sons Bulldozing and Trucking Ltd

Chair’s Award for Safety Excellence – Standard Business

Bird Construction

Honourable Mention: Nucor Rebar Fabrication

Most Improved

Municipal Ready Mix

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ABOUT CONSTRUCTION SAFETY NOVA SCOTIA

For media inquiries, please contact:

Shannon Kehoe
Manager, Marketing and Communications
Cell: 902-209-5658
Email: skehoe@constructionsafetyns.ca

November 8, 2023

For Immediate Release

The Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations (CFCSA) and its members are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in occupational health and safety with the attainment of over 10,000 active Certificate of Recognition (COR®) certified firms across the nation.

COR®: A National Accreditation Standard for Safety Excellence

The Certificate of Recognition (COR®) program, promoted and regulated by CFCSA, has long been recognized as the national standard for an occupational safety & health management system in the Canadian construction industry. The achievement of this milestone demonstrates the commitment of employers, employees, and safety professionals across the country to maintaining accredited standard of safety within their organizations.

COR® certification involves rigorous evaluations of an organization’s health and safety management system. It encompasses hazard identification, risk assessment, and effective control measures, ensuring that Canadian firms are equipped to handle the unique challenges of the construction industry. This program provides companies with a competitive edge while fostering a culture of safety and reducing workplace incidents.

Empirical Evidence: Lower Injury Rates

A key finding of the CFCSA’s commitment to COR® certification is that firms holding this accreditation experience an average of 18% lower injury rates compared to non-certified firms. This statistic is supported by comprehensive research papers, which are available on the CFCSA website HERE.

These research papers have examined the effectiveness of COR® certification in enhancing workplace safety and its direct impact on injury rates. The findings underscore the value of investing in COR® certification and its substantial contribution to the overall well-being of construction industry workers.

A Bright Future for Canadian Construction Safety

The achievement of this milestone underscores the remarkable progress that the Canadian construction industry has made in embracing safety as a core value. It also emphasizes the determination of firms to prioritize the well-being of their workforce. As a result, workplaces across the country have become safer, and the lives and health of workers have been significantly improved.

The CFCSA invites firms in construction and related industries to explore the benefits of COR® certification and join the growing community of safety-conscious organizations that are committed to a safer, healthier, and more productive industry.

For more information on the Certificate of Recognition (COR®) program and to access our research papers, please visit CFCSA.ca.

About Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations
The Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations (CFCSA) works as an umbrella organization for provincial and territorial Construction Safety Associations with a shared interest in: promoting awareness of construction health and safety; improving information sharing, and; collaboratively producing workplace health and safety training standards/information resources.

The 13 CFCSA members are:

Alberta Construction Safety Association
ASP Construction – Quebec
BC Construction Safety Alliance
Construction Safety Association of Manitoba
Construction Safety Nova Scotia
Heavy Construction Safety Association of Saskatchewan
Infrastructure Health & Safety Association
Manitoba Heavy Construction Association
New Brunswick Construction Safety Association
Newfoundland & Labrador Construction Safety Association
Northern Safety Association
Northern Safety Network Yukon
Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association

ABOUT CONSTRUCTION SAFETY NOVA SCOTIA

Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS) is an industry funded not-for-profit association focused on improving occupational health and safety in the construction sector. CSNS is a highly regarded leader in OHS services with over 300,000 students trained in health and safety and over 1,150 firms attaining the association’s Certificate of Recognition (COR®) safety certification. The board of directors, OHS advisors, and CSNS staff work towards a safer construction industry by engaging with its membership to reduce injuries and improve safety culture. The association is passionate about saving lives and reducing injuries through industry-tailored instruction and advice. https://csns.rpdev7.com/.