Every year, BROWZ makes it a point to recognize National Safety Month. In the past, they’ve created videos that talk about statistics and encourage safety. But, in the words of Corporate Marketing Manager David Askvig, “They’ve never been that entertaining. Safety is a serious topic, but quite frankly, many people tune it out.”
Hoping to do something different this year, the BROWZ marketing team felt confident that if they could create a video that was entertaining – something to engage the audience – they could deliver a very important message and help raise awareness.
“We stepped back and asked ourselves, why do we do this?” Askvig remembers. “Why are we engaged in talking about safety? We were unanimous that it’s about preserving the lives of those we love. Who better to help bring awareness than children?”
So they interviewed kids about the Top 10 OSHA Violations, and, says Askvig, “Their responses were priceless. Kids always say the greatest things.”
The marketing team recorded about 3 hours of footage and there were some great responses, he says, noting: “Children have such a great perspective, they really care about others. For example, with the comment of people dying if they fell of a building, they immediately shifted to prevention (land on a pillow).”
Kids have a good sense for safety and they come up with creative ideas. For example, to be safe around machinery, the kids suggested unplugging it, folding your hands, etc.
“None of their responses were scripted, we just asked questions that got them thinking. Children are great problem solvers,” says Askvig, though he admits: “Their ideas are just a bit crazy at times… Sticky pads on hands so you don’t fall, throwing a rock and rope over a building to climb… etc. But they gave them some thought.”
As adults, we often go about our day with very little thought to safety, he adds. It was interesting to hear how much the children picked up from observing the safety practices of their parents.
“There were comments about everything from cooking practices to wearing seat belts. If we expect our children to be safe now and in the workplace of the future, it’s up to us to set the right example for them today,” Askvig says.
He adds that BROWZ employees loved the video when they saw it. “Much of our company is focused on reviewing the health and safety data of contractors on behalf of their hiring organizations,” he says. “So the OSHA violations and safety practices were familiar to employee base but I think they enjoyed the creative take [on the topic].”
Askvig said the company already has shared the video on social media channels, and plans to share it with customers, with the safety community, and also with non-safety professionals. “Our intent is to put a focus on National Safety Month,” he says. Safety is a big part of BROWZ. We ensure that organizations are working safe, qualified and socially responsible contractors and suppliers. We see ourselves advocates in workplace safety. If we can even bring awareness to one individual, prevent one accident or fatality, the video will have been a success.”
