BSC’s Campaign to Promote Safety on Social Networking Sites
Twitter, Facebook and YouTube have come of age. They are a rage among the younger generation and proved that they are the most effective communication vehicles.
In a surprising but welcome move, the British Safety Council has gone ahead and addressed the younger generation on social networking sites. It has put up a campaign to instil confidence and responsibility among young workers.
Called the Speak Up, Stay Safe campaign, the BSC’s initiative will have a far reaching effect on the young workers safety at workplace. With the death of Steven Burke in January 2004, the BSC is focussing on keeping the young worker informed and assured about workplace safety. Steven Burke died at his work spot by falling from 50 feet high scaffolding. It was disheartening to know that Steven had been apprehensive about working on the scaffolding. He trusted that his employer had put safety measures in place and knew what he was doing.
BSC has now put up this campaign on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube with animation videos, case studies and resources that provide valuable information about workplace safety, employer responsibility and employee awareness. It is encouraging the young workforce between the ages of 16 and 19 to be aware and not hesitate to share concerns about safety. The youth is being coerced to share concerns with the work supervisors, parents, family and friends to ensure that safety measures are effectively in place.
According to British Safety Council Chief Executive, Julie Nerney, UK has been witnessing the death of young workers every 40 minutes at workplace. It is surprising, shocking and disturbing. However, she opines that this campaign will be a valuable tool to become aware and reduce such fatalities. Head of Policy and Public Affairs for the British Safety Council, Neal Stone observes that there are over 60 young worker deaths in the last ten years and it is time to keep them informed and alert.
The social networking sites are now a boon to get the message across, loud and clear.
Workplace Law Group specialises in employment law, health and safety and premises management. They provide information, advice, training and consulting for organisations throughout the UK, to help them comply with the law and manage people in the workplace.
