Suicide Prevention in the Power Line Construction Industry
We’re tough. We’re trained. We work in extreme conditions. But even the strongest among us can struggle with things that aren’t visible - stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Construction ranks among the highest industries for suicide risk. It’s time we talk about it. At SELCAT, we believe safety doesn’t stop on the job site. Mental health is job site safety too.
In the outside powerline construction industry, we’re no strangers to working under pressure. Long hours, physically demanding labor, travel away from loved ones, and the everpresent need to stay safe on job sites - these are part of the job. But there’s another danger that often remains unseen AND unspoken: mental health struggles and the risk of suicide.
At SELCAT, our mission has always been to train and support the best in our trade - and that means looking out for the well-being of every individual who puts on a hard hat, climbs a pole, or steps into a trench. Today, that mission includes raising awareness around suicide prevention and breaking the stigma that prevents too many from seeking help. Recognizing the warning signs of emotional distress or suicidal thoughts can save a life. Look out for changes in behavior such as:
*Withdrawal from coworkers or family and friends
*Increased anger, irritability, or mood swings
*Excessive substance abuse
*Talking about or mentioning feeling hopeless or being a burden
*Giving away belongings
*Isolating themself
In this issue
Suicide Prevention & Awareness
Top Outs Hard Hat Safety Week
See Top-Outs for April, May and June 2025
A few tips on being prepared for our busiest time of year.
Know Your Knots Learn how to tie a Bowline on a Bight.
Expanding the Field of Training
An article by Lead Instructor, Thad Laventure
Upcoming Important dates:
July 4, 2025
Office Closed
July 7-17, 2025
Substation/Underground FTS Class
July 7-11, 2025
Intro to Distribution Class
July 14-18, 2025
3Phase Intermediate Class
July 21-22, 2025
C&J CDL Training Newnan, GA
SELCAT SPOTLIGHT
What We Can Do as an Industry
Promote a Culture of Care-
Encourage open discussions about mental health on job sites and in the training yard. Let team members know it’s okay to ask for help - and that doing so is a sign of strength, not weakness!
Provide Resources and Training-
SELCAT is committed to sharing mental health resources, including hotlines, peer support networks, and mental health first aid training. When workers are trained to recognize distress and signs, they’re better equipped to intervene.
Support Each Other-
We work in crews. We work in teams. And we succeed because we look out for one another. Mental health safety is no different. Whether you’re an apprentice or a journeyman, a foreman or an instructor- you have the power to support someone who may be silently struggling.
RESOURCES-
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call or text 988
Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Preventionwww.preventconstructionsuicide.com
LINECO- Lineco is accepted by many online therapy apps. Private and at your own readiness.
Key Takeaways............
The construction sector has the 2 highest suicide rate of any U.S. industry. nd In 2022, more than 6,000 construction workers died by suicide, a toll over six times higher than on-the-job fatalities.
1 Mental health risks are at crisis levels in our industry comparable to or exceeding physical hazards
2 Linemen likely mirror overall construction trade trends, facing similarly high suicide rates
3 Prevention must be as core as PPE: peer support, mental health resources, stigma reduction, and early intervention training are essential.
June14-20, 2025
HARDHAT A ENESSWEEK
At Southeastern Line Constructors Apprenticeship and Training (SELCAT), safety is more than just a protocol- it’s a promise. During Hard Hat Awareness Week, we proudly honor the essential role hard hats play in protecting the lives of the men and women who build, maintain, and power our communities. Hard hats symbolize more than head protection - they represent the grit, skill and dedication of every apprentice and journeyman in the linework trade. Whether it’s climbing poles in the blazing sun or restoring power after a storm, our crews face daily hazards with resilienceand their hard hats are their first line of defense.
Why It Matters:
Safety First: One injury prevented is a family kept whole. Leadership by Example: At SELCAT, apprentices are trained to make safety second nature.
A Legacy of Protection: Generations of powerline workers have trusted this simple piece of gear to help them come home safe. As we continue to train the next generation of highly skilled electrical line workers, SELCAT remains committed to building a culture where safety is embedded in every lesson, every climb, and every connection.
This week and every week, we salute those who wear the hard hat with pride!
Milwaukee Apprentice of the Month Nomination
Do you have an apprentice that has done something worthy of a little recognition? Big or Small? Yes??
Then scan one of the QR Codes above, or click/copy the link below, and nominate them to receive recognition and to possibly be selected for Milwaukee Tool’s Apprentice of the Month. If selected, the apprentice will receive a “goody” bag, similar to the one shown, receive media recognition, and be entered for a chance to win Milwaukee’s Apprentice of the Year at the Outside Apprenticeship Conference in 2025!If you have questions, please email Jennifer at jenniferg@selcat com https://form.jotform.com/241153280943150
WHAT THEY SAY........
Joining SELCAT has opened numerous opportunities for employment. While working on the job, every day is different, and there is always something new to learn.
-Emmanuel Munoz, 1 Step AP st Arcadia, FL
Being in this apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to get great training and knowledge I have always wanted to travel and work, and this apprenticeship allows me to do so
-Samuel Baker, 1 Step AP st Zellwood, FL
Being in this apprenticeship has not only allowed me to achieve my financial goals, but also other life goals.
-Timothy “Tanto” Garland, 1 Step AP st Morganton, GA
Expanding the Field of Training: Preparing the Next Generation of Journeymen
By Thad Laventure, Lead Instructor, SELCAT
At SELCAT, our commitment to excellence in training never stops evolving. With the powerline industry advancing rapidly, it’s essential we not only keep up but lead the way. That’s why we’ve launched two strategic new training classes designed to better prepare apprentices at both ends of their journey: Intro to Disto and Intermediate Three-Phase.
Laying the Foundation Early: Intro to Disto The Intro to Disto class is our proactive approach to ensure new apprentices hit the ground running. We bring in these early-stage apprentices before they ever step foot on a distribution crew. This head start allows us to instill critical safety and work practices from day one—especially those outlined in OSHA ET&D and our industry’s best practices.
The focus here is on proper "insulate and isolate" techniques. Instructors walk apprentices through the how, what, and most importantly, why of covering up step by step. By building these strong habits now, we’re avoiding costly retraining down the line and equipping them with the confidence and skills they need to thrive in the field.
Stepping Up: Intermediate Three-Phase
For apprentices nearing the finish line, Intermediate Three-Phase offers a unique opportunity to assess readiness for topping out. This class places higher-step apprentices in a real-world crew environment. They’re assigned roles, given a job, and then tasked with planning and executing the work as a team. Instructors remain hands-off unless safety becomes a concern. We observe, take detailed notes, and then debrief with the crew to provide feedback. They’re given a second run to apply what they’ve learned and demonstrate growth. At the end of the session, all instructors convene to review the crew’s performance. Apprentices who show proficiency move on, while those who need more time receive tailored follow-up training.
These additions to our curriculum represent more than just new classes—they’re a reflection of SELCAT’s culture of continuous improvement and commitment to our apprentices. We’re not just training linemen; we’re developing future leaders for this trade. And as always, safety, skill, and strong work habits remain at the heart of everything we do.
Stay safe out there,
Thad Laventure
Lead Instructor, SELCAT
For those of us in the outside powerline industry, summer isn’t just another season- it’s one of the most hazardous times of the year. Across the Southeast, soaring temperatures, relentless humidity, and unpredictable weather can put even the most seasoned linemen and apprentices at risk. As we head deeper into the hottest months, SELCAT reminds all members of the workforce: your safety comes first.
The Dangers Are Real
Working outdoors in the Southern summer presents serious risks, including:
Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Left untreated, it can escalate quickly.
Heat Stroke: A life-threatening condition marked by confusion, loss of consciousness, and dangerously high body temperature. This requires immediate emergency care
Dehydration: The body loses water fast in extreme heat, which affects strength, focus, and endurance—critical for those working at heights or near energized lines.
Factors That Increase the Risk
High humidity reduces the body’s ability to cool itself through sweat.
Wearing heavy FR clothing and PPE, while essential, adds to heat strain.
Long shifts, especially during peak afternoon hours
Working in direct sunlight with limited access to shade.
Protect Yourself and Your Crew
Everyone has a role in preventing heat-related incidents:
✅ Hydrate Constantly: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Water and electrolyte drinks should be consumed throughout the day.
✅ Acclimate: New workers or those returning from time off need time to adjust to heat —push gradually.
✅ Rest Breaks Are Non-Negotiable: Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas when possible
✅ Recognize the Signs: Know the early symptoms of heat stress for yourself and your crew. Speak up if you or someone else shows warning signs.
✅ Buddy System: Always keep an eye on each other. Fatigue and heat illness can sneak up fast
✅ Proper Gear: Lightweight, breathable FR clothing is available—check with your supervisor or training center for recommendations.
Weather Awareness
Summer in the South doesn’t just mean heat—it also brings pop-up storms, lightning hazards, and fast-changing conditions. Never hesitate to halt work if conditions become unsafe. Your life is worth far more than any deadline.
Safety is a Shared Responsibility
At SELCAT, we train apprentices and journeymen alike to work safely in all conditions, but staying heat-safe takes vigilance every single day. Supervisors, crews, and individuals must work together to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Let’s look out for one another, stay prepared, and make sure every member of our SELCAT family returns home safe—no matter how high the temperatures climb.
