Description

Construction workers have been considered nearly twice as likely as those in other industries to experience substance-use challenges, with alcohol playing a particularly prominent role. To spotlight alcohol awareness in the construction industry, host Kevin Hilton welcomes back Cal Beyer, Senior Director of SAFE Workplaces for SAFE Project (Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic). In this conversation, Kevin and Cal discuss current trends surrounding alcohol use in the construction industry and the urgent need for greater awareness, support, and prevention. Cal highlights the importance of building recovery-friendly workplaces and offers practical guidance on how organizations can foster a culture of care and support. The episode emphasizes the human impact of alcohol use, addresses the stigma surrounding recovery, and calls for meaningful action to create safer, healthier workplaces across the industry.

Episode Resources

SAFE Project (Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic)

• The Snowball — SAFE Project’s national recovery movement
• 3-Minute Overview Video

Industry Perspectives

• Real Talk: Alcohol Awareness and Promoting Workplace Recovery
  Asphalt Pro Magazine, Cal Beyer (November 2025)
• Promoting a Recovery-Ready Workplace by De-Emphasizing Alcohol at Company Gatherings
  Construction Financial Management Association, Cal Beyer (2024)

Alcohol Education & Awareness (NIAAA)

• Rethinking Drinking: Alcohol & Your Health (English PDF)
• Rethinking Drinking: Alcohol & Your Health (Spanish PDF)
• What Are the Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

Personal Stories & Recovery

• Interview with Laura Jones, author of Beyond Sober: You Put Down the Booze, Now What?

National Safety Council Substance Use Cost Calculator

• NSC Substance Use Employer Cost Calculator