Construction Inclusion Week 2025: Toolbox Talk 3

Respect and Inclusion on the Jobsite/ Workplace

Reinforcing respect on the jobsite is essential for building a safe and open work environment where everyone feels valued.

This conversation defines what respect and inclusion mean in high-pressure construction settings and helps people recognize how behaviors build or erode trust. Our resources will teach you how to address disrespectful actions or microaggressions. It also explores inclusive habits that strengthen team cohesion and explains the link between respect, psychological safety, and project success.

PILLAR ALIGNMENT: Belonging & Workforce Culture, Commitment & Accountability

Sample Activity Options

JOBSITE ACTIVITY

Start every day/shift by greeting each team member by name.

OFFICE ACTIVITY

Audit team meetings: Who speaks, who gets interrupted and who gets heard? Discuss what you see and recommend improvements.

School/Community Activity

Lead a classroom discussion on how students define and demonstrate respect.

Group Activity

Host a 5-minute “Bias Check” circle: what assumptions might we bring to the work without realizing it?

Discussion Questions

A strong jobsite is built on a foundation of respect, where every member of the crew feels valued and heard. This is why we are going to focus on  the everyday actions and habits that build that foundation. We’ll talk about what an inclusive environment looks and feels like, how to address disrespect when we see it, and what we can all do to make our team stronger. The goal is to give each of us the tools to create a workplace where everyone can work safely and at their best.

  • What does a respectful work environment look and feel like and what threatens it?
  • How should we address disrespect when we see or experience it?
  • What habits or traditions may unintentionally exclude people?
  • How can feedback be given respectfully under pressure?
  • What can each of us do to model inclusive behavior every day?

Start planning your Toolbox Talk Activities now! Download this Toolbox Talk below or download the full set:

Download Toolbox Talk 3 Download All Toolbox Talks

View More Resources

Opening Doors through Mentorship

Mentor your crew to build a stronger team

Sparking Early Interest in the Construction Industry

Build a talent pipeline by inspiring the next generation

Respect and Inclusion on the Jobsite/ Workplace

Create a respectful crew for a safer jobsite

Career Re-entry

Build your workforce by giving second chances

Building an Inclusive Site Culture

Reinforce an inclusive crew with everyday actions

Mental Health in Construction

Promote mental well-being to build a safer jobsite

Psychological Safety in Construction

Constructing a Culture of Trust and Safety

Pivot & Build – Life After Athletics

Harness athletic talent to strengthen your crew

Construction Careers for Veterans

Framing Opportunities for Veterans in Construction

Supporting People with Different Abilities and Neurodivergent Thinking Styles

Different minds, same mission: a stronger crew

Small Actions, Big Impact

Small actions build a stronger jobsite culture.

Bridging Generations: Respecting Differences, Building Together

Uniting Crews Through Generational Understanding

Economic Opportunity - Broadening Opportunity for Qualified Suppliers

Expanding Possibilities Through a Broad Supplier Network
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