Building a Safer, Healthier Construction Industry: Lessons from Lee Rowswell
The construction industry is a cornerstone of modern society, responsible for shaping the spaces where we live, work, and play. However, it’s no secret that the sector faces significant challenges in supporting the health and wellbeing of its workforce. In the inaugural episode of Build & Thrive, our brand-new podcast and video series, Construction Health & Wellbeing Founder, Jennie Armstrong was joined by Lee Rowswell, Group Director at GKR Scaffolding. Lee shared his inspiring journey, his commitment to improving health and safety, and the innovative steps his business is taking to transform the industry. If you enjoy this blog, make sure to check out the full podcast or video episode for a deeper dive into these important topics.
From Tools to Leadership: Lee Rowswell’s Journey
Lee’s career began over 35 years ago when he joined the family scaffolding business at just 15 years old. Like many in the industry, construction wasn’t his first career choice – it was simply where life led him. Fast forward to today, Lee is at the helm of GKR Scaffolding, a company with a turnover exceeding £40 million and a reputation for innovation and excellence.
Lee’s passion for health and safety stems from a deeply personal experience. In the 1990s, his brother Neil fell from some scaffolding. Neil’s recovery – including a groundbreaking surgery with only a 20% chance of success – inspired Lee to prioritise health and safety in every aspect of his work. This life-changing moment became a driving force behind Lee’s mission to create a safer, healthier construction industry.
The Challenges Facing Construction Health and Wellbeing
During our conversation, Lee highlighted three key challenges that persist in the construction industry: manual handling, dust, and noise exposure. While these issues aren’t new, their impact on workers remains significant.
- Manual Handling:
Manual handling is a daily reality in scaffolding, where workers routinely lift, carry, and move heavy materials. Lee shared how GKR Scaffolding has embraced wearable technology to monitor and improve manual handling practices. These devices provide real-time feedback, helping workers correct unsafe movements and reduce physical strain. Since introducing wearables, GKR has seen a 67% improvement in manual handling safety. This innovation not only protects workers today but hopefully will extend their careers in a physically demanding industry. - Dust Exposure:
Dust remains a silent yet significant threat. Whether it’s from cutting materials or residual dust left on scaffolding by other trades, exposure can lead to serious long-term health issues. Lee stressed the importance of industry-wide education on dust risks and implementing stricter controls, such as banning the use of brooms and investing in extraction systems. GKR also advocates for contractual agreements that ensure sites are cleaned thoroughly before scaffolding is dismantled. - Noise Exposure:
The increased use of power tools, such as impact wrenches, has brought new challenges in managing noise levels. GKR conducts task-specific noise assessments and uses personal noise monitors to better understand their daily exposure. This then helps to identify measures that not only protect the workers hearing but also highlight the company’s commitment to looking after their workers health and wellbeing.
Mental Health: Breaking Down Barriers
One of the most profound parts of our discussion with Lee was his openness about mental health – both his own struggles and those faced by his workforce. Construction is a high-pressure industry, and its male-dominated culture has historically stigmatised mental health issues.
Lee candidly shared his experiences with anxiety, depression, and ADHD, particularly during a difficult period in 2020 when he navigated a divorce, co-parenting, and leading a business during COVID-19. By speaking out, Lee hopes to encourage others in the industry to seek help and normalise conversations about mental health.
At GKR, initiatives like mental health first aiders and partnerships with the Lighthouse Charity provide vital support for employees. The Lighthouse Charity, which offers financial, emotional, and mental health assistance, has helped thousands of construction workers and their families. Lee urged anyone struggling to reach out – whether to colleagues, friends, or professional resources. “It’s good to talk,” he said, emphasising the strength that comes from sharing burdens with others.
Embracing Innovation for a Healthier Future
Looking ahead, Lee is optimistic about the role of technology in shaping a safer, healthier construction industry. Wearable devices, VR training, and advanced safety equipment are just some of the tools transforming how businesses operate. GKR’s use of musculoskeletal wearables and task-specific training has already yielded significant results, and Lee believes the industry is on the cusp of even greater advancements.
However, technology alone isn’t enough. As Lee pointed out, the industry’s greatest asset is its people. By investing in their health, wellbeing, and professional development, businesses can create high-performing teams that drive long-term success. “If you break your team, you break your business,” Lee said, underscoring the importance of putting workers first.
If you want to learn more about the wearables to improve manual handling in construction contact support@constructionhealth.co.uk
Neurodiversity: Hidden Strengths in Construction
Lee also discussed the untapped potential of neurodiverse individuals in construction. As someone diagnosed with ADHD, he’s learned to harness his unique strengths – limitless energy, persistence, and creativity – to drive success. Lee believes the industry must do more to recognise and embrace neurodiverse talent, highlighting the hidden powers that come from thinking differently.
By fostering inclusivity and appreciating diverse ways of working, construction can attract and retain a broader range of talent. This is especially critical as the industry faces a labour shortage, with 15% of its workforce set to retire in the next 10 to 15 years.
What’s in Your Hard Hat? Tips for Wellbeing
We closed the episode with a feature called “What’s in Your Hard Hat?” where Lee shared his top tips for staying healthy and happy:
- Stay Active: Lee keeps fit with padel tennis and Reformer Pilates, emphasising the importance of maintaining muscle mass as we age.
- Eat Well: A balanced diet fuels both physical and mental health.
- Prioritise Rest: While it can be hard to switch off as a business owner, Lee encourages finding ways to recharge.
- Seek Support: Whether it’s friends, colleagues, or professional services, having a strong support network is essential.
Lee Rowswell’s story is a testament to the power of leadership, innovation, and culture in driving positive change. From his personal journey to GKR’s pioneering initiatives, he offers a blueprint for creating a construction industry that values health and wellbeing as much as safety.
If you’ve enjoyed this blog, we invite you to watch the full video or listen to the podcast for even more insights and inspiration. Together, we can build a healthier, happier future for construction.
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