Ann John, professor of public health and psychiatry at Swansea University and one of the authors of the standard told Construction News<\/em>: \u201cMy hope is that the construction industry will be at the forefront of implementation as they are already highly aware of the problem.<\/p>\n \u201cTheir early adoption would be amazing. Issues in construction around precariousness of employment, working practices, and how an often-transient working population can access support \u2013 all these are relevant areas the standard addresses.\u201d<\/p>\n The standard recommends that employers assign a named senior leader with responsibility for suicide prevention, supported by a clear strategy, practical actions and accountability for delivery.<\/p>\n It also encourages organisations to embed suicide awareness into policies such as mental health, performance management and absence procedures.<\/p>\n The standard states that organisations should consider their effect on the working environments of others, naming \u201csubcontractors in construction\u201d as one example where mental health responsibilities may extend beyond the immediate workforce.<\/p>\n Professor John said that the drafting committee was \u201creally conscious\u201d of the need to make the standard accessible for SMEs \u2013 the backbone of the construction sector \u2013 and not just large firms. \u201cThe culture change in the overall framework applies across the board but throughout the document, we\u2019re saying \u2018this may be applicable to your organisation\u2019, so we\u2019re not being coercive.\u201d<\/p>\n Small or micro firms may lack HR departments but their small scale can also be a mental health advantage, John added. \u201cSometimes in smaller companies people have closer relationships, so there is that ability to have [mental health] conversations and be supportive,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n The guidance also says that suicide prevention must apply to all workers, including freelancers, contractors and agency staff, and not just direct employees.<\/p>\n BS 30480:2025 drafting committee at the standard’s launch<\/p><\/div>\n It notes that organisational structures can affect individuals\u2019 willingness to disclose mental health concerns, particularly where fears of job loss or reputational damage exist.<\/p>\n Line managers are expected to play a key role.<\/p>\n The standard includes a management toolkit with guidance on recognising warning signs, holding sensitive conversations, and implementing individual safety plans. It also recommends that workers receive access to private check-ins, educational resources and signposted support services.<\/p>\n Workplace design, workload, isolation and bullying are listed among the factors that can contribute to suicide risk, the document says.<\/p>\n The guidance also calls for organisations to manage such stressors and ensure staff feel physically and psychologically safe.<\/p>\n It warns that unmet emotional needs \u2014 including a lack of control, connection or recognition \u2014 can lead to distress.<\/p>\n The document also urges a shift in language, advising against terms such as \u201ccommitted suicide\u201d and promoting the use of neutral alternatives such as \u201cdied by suicide\u201d. Employers are advised to challenge stigma and create inclusive, supportive cultures where conversations about suicide are possible.<\/p>\n BS 30480:2025 was developed by the British Standards Institution with input from mental health charities, local authorities, health bodies, industry organisations and individuals with lived experience. The Considerate Constructors Scheme, Mates in Mind and the Lighthouse Charity Belfast were among those contributing to its development.<\/p>\n Although the guidance is not mandatory, it is designed to support organisations in meeting their existing responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.<\/p>\n Professor John said: \u201cWhat this standard does is give people a framework to the things that prevent suicide \u2013 it\u2019s been needed for such a long time,\u201d said Ann John, professor of public health and psychiatry at Swansea University and one of the authors of the standard.<\/p>\n \u201cThis has the potential to be completely transformative.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.ca.emap.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/11\/a66761b0-f129-4836-bf8f-053959332b27_1024x683_144dpi-300x200.webp\")