Safety Newsletter
Featured Project
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a reminder that safety is about more than physical hazards. It is also about protecting the mental health and well-being of every person on our jobsites. The construction industry faces a difficult reality, with suicide rates significantly higher than many other industries. That makes mental health awareness and suicide prevention an important part of our safety culture.
At Champion, our goal is for every employee to leave work safely each day, but we also want everyone to come to work knowing they are supported by the people around them. Looking out for ourselves and each other is just as important as identifying physical hazards. If you are struggling, reach out to someone you trust. If you think a coworker may be having a difficult time, take the opportunity to check in, listen, and help connect them with available resources.
One of the most effective tools for suicide prevention is simple human connection. Take the time to get to know the people you work with. Building relationships creates a support system that can make a meaningful difference when challenges arise. Often, a conversation, a phone call, or simply showing someone that you care can have a lasting impact.
Mental health is also influenced by how we take care of ourselves. Prioritizing sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, and managing stress all contribute to overall well-being. Just as we maintain our tools and equipment to ensure reliability, we must also take care of ourselves to perform at our best and stay safe. Taking care of your mental health is preventive maintenance.
Whether you need support today or simply want to learn what resources are available, take time to familiarize yourself with the help that exists. You may never need those resources personally, but knowing where to turn could help a coworker when it matters most.
For additional information and resources, visit: https://constructionsuicideprevention.com/resources/
This month’s Crew of the Month recognition is well deserved by the team working on the George Washington Bridge Rehabilitation, Lead and Asbestos Abatement, and Repainting Project.
The project began in November 2024 with the installation of more than 500,000 square feet of Safespan platforming across the underside of the bridge, stretching from New Jersey to New York. This critical phase required a dedicated team of 19 bridge painters and ironworkers who performed the installation during both day and night shifts using snooper trucks and manlifts.
Following the completion of the platform installation, lead and asbestos abatement activities and steel recoating operations began on more than one million square feet of structural steel. Much of this steel had not been blast cleaned since the lower deck’s original construction in 1962. Since abatement and prime coat application commenced in June 2025, the team has successfully completed approximately 500,000 square feet of surface preparation and coating work.
This project is restoring and protecting one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks and a vital transportation corridor that serves more than 300,000 vehicles every day. Working on this bridge is no small task. Due to the bridge’s location and elevation, the crew has faced some of the region’s most challenging weather conditions while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.
While many individuals contribute to the success of this project each day, we would like to specifically recognize the outstanding leadership and dedication of the following Champion team members:
Congratulations to the entire George Washington Bridge project team for this well-earned recognition. Your hard work, professionalism, and commitment to excellence continue to make Champion proud.
