I am a man working in the construction industry, and I face bullying nearly every day. This is not just my personal struggle, but a widespread issue that affects many of us. We are belittled by our managers, directors, and even our colleagues on a daily basis. The justice system seems to turn a blind eye to this problem, leaving us feeling helpless and unheard.

The construction industry is dominated by men - Yet despite this majority representation, we face discrimination and bullying regularly. This toxic environment has severe consequences - it's pushed me to the brink where I've considered ending my life.

This is not just about improving conditions for men in construction; it's about human rights. Everyone deserves respect at their workplace regardless of their gender or occupation.

It's time for change! We need stronger regulations against workplace bullying in the construction industry. We need better support systems for those who experience such abuse. And most importantly, we need recognition that this problem exists so that no one else feels as desperate as I do now.

There is no legal definition of bullying but experts agree that bullying is conscious behaviour that is offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting and happens repeatedly and persistently over a period of time.

Types of bullying in the workplace could include:

Being called names

Deliberately being ignored or excluded

Constant criticism or ‘putting down’

Spreading rumours about you

Setting you up to fail

Aggressive behaviour – shouting, intimidation and threatening behaviour

Using a position of power to make you feel threatened or undermined

Making threats about job security or blocking your progress

Fighting/aggression

There may be heated occasions in a workplace where different personalities clash and someone becomes aggressive. If the aggressive behaviour is a one-off incident and doesn’t continue, this would not be considered bullying. After all, we don’t always know what is going on with someone else and why they might have reacted this way on this particular occasion.

Isolated incidents

Being excluded from an activity, aggressive behaviour, arguments or telling a joke involving a colleague can all be upsetting if you’re on the receiving end, but in isolation, these things aren’t necessarily considered bullying. However, if this behaviour happens often or is carried out to gain power or control, then this would be bullying.

Please sign this petition if you believe in creating safer workplaces free from discrimination and bullying for all workers in the construction industry.

Thank you