The culture of the construction industry must be acceptable to everyone, regardless of background.
Helsingin Sanomat wrote that it is difficult to control harassment in the construction industry (March 15.3). However, it is not impossible.
In the construction industry's industry-wide responsibility program, we have made employee diversity and well-being a key development priority for social responsibility. We set a goal of zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment and inappropriate treatment.
The goal is ambitious, but the only possible one. In order for our field to have enough skilled workers in the future, the shortcomings must be taken seriously, they must be highlighted and they must be addressed.
The culture of the industry must be acceptable to everyone, regardless of background. Everyone has the right to belong to the group as themselves, but that does not mean they can say whatever they want. This right also includes the obligation to behave well and respect others.
An encouraging example of change is the turnaround achieved in occupational safety in construction. Whereas twenty years ago the use of personal protective equipment was even laughed at, today it is taken for granted. In occupational safety, correction is increasingly rarely overlooked. A corresponding change in attitude is needed for inappropriate behavior.
We provide guidance, training and support to companies to create practices that promote a good working environment. In March, for example, we will publish guidelines on how to address diversity, equality and non-discrimination, and how to prevent and address discrimination, harassment and unfair treatment.
Many companies in the industry are working consistently to build a diverse and open work culture. There are also numerous professionals in the industry who are committed to fair behavior from the core. Together we can reform our practices. We do not give space or even tacit approval to troublemakers.
The article was published on March 17, 2026 in the opinion column of Helsingin Sanomat..
Ville Wartiovaara
Executive Vice President, Regional Director
ville.wartiovaara@rt.fi +358 40 564 7939Talonrakennusteollisuus ry, Uusimaa
Merja Vuoripuro
Director, Communications and Responsibility
merja.vuoripuro@rt.fi +358 40 587 2642Confederation of Finnish Construction Industries (CFCI)
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