An exploration of characteristics associated with substance use within the construction industry in the United Kingdom: A quantitative secondary data analysis

Abstract

Background: Substance use is a global public health issue. Those working in the construction industry use substances at a higher rate than those in other industries. Construction is a safety critical industry, and the impact of substance use can increase the likelihood of harms to health. This study aimed to examine substance use of clients presenting to a support and wellbeing service within the construction industry in the United Kingdom. Specifically, this study explored if there was a relationship between age, income level, the presence of a co-occurring mental illness on substance use and type of substance used, as well as exploring the impact of those identifying work as a stress factor.  

Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted using data collected by the service from July 2022 to August 2023. The data for participants reporting substance use was extracted, and included demographic information, co- occurring mental health issues, type of substance use and whether work was a stressor. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to characterise the sample. 

Results: 51 cases were extracted from the 458 in the primary data, which was 11.1% of the cases. Alcohol was the most reported substance (52.9% of participants), and 62% reporting use were on a lower income, 54.9% were aged 31-55 and 82.3% reported a co-occurring mental illness. Around a quarter (25.5%) of cases reported that their mental health and wellbeing issues were not impacted by work stressors. Following Chi-square testing, there was a relationship between mental illness and the type of substance use (single or poly substance use) with a P value of .037, and work stress and single substance use with a P value of .039. Of particular note, is the relationship between age and type of substance use (alcohol, single or poly-substance use) with statistical significance and a P value of .001. 

Conclusion: The study explored the characteristics of UK construction workers who use substances and are receiving support. Few studies have been undertaken in this population, and implications for future research and support required. A larger UK study would yield richer results, and few have been undertaken in this population group, further exploration around and including the high rate of participants reporting mental illness, the high rate of alcohol use, the difference in the type of substances used by age group and the possible impact of work stressors. The current literature on this population group suggests that in order for support to be effective it should be person-centred, focus on health promotion, prevention and treatment, using evidence-based interventions for those experiencing issues with substance use and avoiding a punitive approach.