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In our industry, people are at the heart of everything we do.

Many of our members have worked alongside their employees for years - even decades - and those relationships often feel more like family than simply colleagues. So, when tragedy strikes, whether through a workplace accident, sudden illness, or the loss of a team member or passerby, the impact is deeply personal.

A critical incident can take many forms - a serious injury, a permanent disability, or even the death of an employee, visitor, or member of the public. Whatever the situation, the impact is profound. 

Such events send shockwaves through the workplace, touching not only those directly involved but everyone who feels the loss. Even newer employees, who may not have known the person well, can be deeply affected by witnessing such trauma.

Employers have a duty to protect not only physical safety but also emotional wellbeing. In the critical hours after an incident, emotions run high and key decisions must be made - how to support staff, who will contact families, how to manage communication and media.

From 1 December 2025, Victoria’s new Psychological Health Regulations will require employers to manage psychosocial hazards just as they do physical ones (WorkSafe Victoria). Having a clear plan in place before an incident occurs is now both best practice and a compliance essential.

You don’t have to face this alone.

Incolink, one of our valued industry partners, provides vital wellbeing support for the construction industry - including confidential counselling, health and wellbeing services, and a Critical Incident Response team offering on-site and follow-up support to help your team recover after a crisis.