Construction workers comprise a high-risk population that experiences disproportionately high rates of mental health issues, including substance use and suicide. Stigma and low job security often limit disclosure and help-seeking. We developed Protecting Under the Hard Hat, an anonymous, mobile-accessible web tool designed to enable private self-screening and immediate connection to resources. The tool screens for depression, alcohol and drug use, and gambling, and provides tailored feedback including crisis lines, assistance program links, and self-management tools. To begin quantifying the prevalence of these issues, an anonymous back-end data collector is enabled, recording user responses, timestamps, geolocation, and repeat device access. In collaboration with the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey and health and safety managers, we plan statewide deployment during May’s Mental Health Awareness Month using banners and stickers with QR codes.

To prepare for deployment and optimize workers’ engagement with the tool, we conducted formative focus groups with construction workers, including individuals with lived experience of recovery, to assess the usability of the interface, perceived privacy, cultural relevance, and outreach materials. Participants reported strong acceptability of anonymous, on-site access and emphasized the importance of clear privacy assurances, non-clinical language, and rapid completion time. They also recommended peer-oriented framing and visible placement of materials in break areas and restrooms. Iterative refinements were implemented following this feedback. A pilot deployment across fifteen active construction sites is planned for April 2026. Here, we describe prototype development, formative user-testing results, and plans for the upcoming deployment.