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Mental Health Awareness and Support on National Highways Toolbox Talk: Promoting Wellbeing in Highways Work
The Mental Health Awareness and Support on National Highways Toolbox Talk provides crucial guidance on recognising, supporting, and promoting mental health in highways work environments. Developed in line with Raising the Bar 34 (RTB34), this document follows UK legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and HSE guidance on work-related stress and mental wellbeing. It helps businesses implement practical mental health initiatives, reduce stigma, and support employees facing mental health challenges.
Mental health is a critical aspect of workplace safety, particularly in high-pressure environments like highways and traffic management work. Long shifts, tight deadlines, and exposure to potentially traumatic incidents can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. This toolbox talk covers key mental health topics including:
The document explains the legal duty of care employers have to protect workers’ mental health alongside their physical wellbeing. It also highlights the importance of integrating mental health awareness into daily operations—from toolbox talks and team briefings to formal mental health training for managers and supervisors.
In line with Raising the Bar 34, the toolbox talk emphasises early intervention and peer support through initiatives like the Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) programme. Workers are encouraged to speak openly about their mental health, seek help when needed, and support colleagues in distress. The document also provides practical tools and coping strategies for managing stress and maintaining work-life balance.
Simplifying Toolbox Talk Creation with Our Online Generator
Our online document generator makes it easy to create customised toolbox talks like this one. By entering project-specific details, you can generate a professional, compliant document in minutes—helping your business maintain consistent, high-quality safety communication across all highways projects.
Useful Resources and Links
Traffic Signs Manual – Chapter 8: Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/traffic-signs-manual
Safety at Street Works and Road Works (The Red Book):
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safety-at-street-works-and-road-works
HSE Guidance on Work-Related Stress and Mental Wellbeing:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/stress/index.htm
