How to use video to improve workplace safety in your organization
Written by Tim Moss | 12th September 2023
Organizations in all sectors must comply with policies and regulations to protect the environment and ensure the health and safety of their employees. These efforts are commonly referred to as EHS. In the search for innovative ways to promote workplace safety, video content has proven to be a groundbreaking tool. With its dynamic visual capabilities, video content is a powerful resource for improving safety practices, enhancing communication, and fostering a culture of safety awareness among employees. In this blog, we will explore how integrating EHS video can contribute to a safer workplace.
Benefits of video content in improving workplace safety
People have a natural attraction to images, which makes video ideal for communicating complex topics such as safety regulations. Why is that? Research has shown that visual learning significantly increases retention rates compared to traditional methods. Visualizing safety protocols, procedures, and potential risks helps workers understand and retain the information, reducing incidents, injuries, and safety violations.
But it’s not just visuals that help people understand and retain information. The key is storytelling! Videos using the storytelling method improve comprehension and retention by embedding safety practices and protocols into relatable stories. Safety regulations can be complicated and don’t always resonate with employees. Storytelling brings regulations to life, transforming them from abstract concepts into real-life scenarios that employees can relate to.
The benefits of storytelling in EHS videos go far beyond simply conveying information: it fosters a deeper connection to safety principles, empowers individuals to make safer decisions, and promotes a culture of collective responsibility.
But it’s not just visuals that help people understand and retain information. The key is storytelling! Videos using the storytelling method improve comprehension and retention by embedding safety practices and protocols into relatable stories. Safety regulations can be complicated and don’t always resonate with employees. Storytelling brings regulations to life, transforming them from abstract concepts into real-life scenarios that employees can relate to.
The benefits of storytelling in EHS videos go far beyond simply conveying information: it fosters a deeper connection to safety principles, empowers individuals to make safer decisions, and promotes a culture of collective responsibility.
How video content improves safety in different industries
EHS videos have a far-reaching impact on workplace safety, fundamentally changing how companies in various industries approach safety training and accident prevention. To give you an idea of exactly how EHS videos can work, here are a few industry examples where safety is particularly important:
Manufacturing and Industrial Sectors
Video content is critical in manufacturing and industrial environments, where heavy machinery and complex processes are commonplace. Training employees to operate machinery safely can be challenging, but video content simplifies the process. Detailed visual instructions demonstrate proper operation and maintenance, reducing the risk of accidents caused by misuse of machinary. In addition, video can be used to create realistic scenarios that demonstrate the potential consequences of not following safety protocols. As a result, employees feel more accountable and are more careful and vigilant in performing their duties.
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Healthcare workers are under a lot of stress and have to make split-second decisions. Video content helps by providing realistic simulations of medical procedures. From demonstrating CPR techniques to infection control protocols, video training gives healthcare professionals the skills and confidence they need to handle critical situations.
In addition, video technology helps medical staff learn patient handling and proper ergonomics. This not only ensures patient safety but also prevents injuries to medical staff from improper lifting and moving of patients.
In addition, video technology helps medical staff learn patient handling and proper ergonomics. This not only ensures patient safety but also prevents injuries to medical staff from improper lifting and moving of patients.
Construction and Engineering
Due to their specific operations, the construction and engineering industries face unique safety challenges. Implementing complex safety protocols is often difficult with traditional training methods. Enter video, which provides clear visualization of complex procedures. Workers can now see and better understand step-by-step safety procedures, whether working at heights, handling hazardous materials, or operating heavy machinery. This visual approach communicates safety knowledge more effectively and makes it easier to put into practice.
Maximizing the benefits of your safety videos
Gone are the days of boring safety lectures and comprehensive manuals. Video-based training modules bring safety training to life. Interactive EHS videos engage employees by explaining and including knowledge quizzes and small tasks. This promotes knowledge, critical thinking, and quick decision-making, which are imperative in an emergency. In addition, videos can be viewed multiple times, which helps new employees learn at their own pace and retain safety information. Tip: Incorporate typical work scenarios into training videos to simulate realistic situations and increase employee engagement.
In a busy work environment, it’s often challenging to communicate safety information. EHS videos can be distributed through various communication channels to ensure employees receive relevant information. Consider your employees’ work schedules and habits. Send videos when most employees are available, and ensure videos are not sent during peak times. Tip: Workstation screens can play short safety videos on a loop. This reaches employees throughout their daily work and constantly reminds them of safety practices.
While the benefits of video technology for workplace safety are clear, there are challenges to implementing this approach:
Inclusivity and accessibility: Employees have different learning styles and needs, so making content accessible to all should always be a priority. Consider things like closed captioning, alternative content formats, and accessible interfaces to ensure that all employees feel included.
Content quality: The quality of video content produced is critical. Poorly produced or unclear videos can reduce the effectiveness of training. Use artificial intelligence and intelligent tools to create instructional videos.
Content timeliness: Health and safety regulations change frequently. Constantly updated video content is necessary. Implement a strategy to regularly update content to ensure employees are working with the latest information.
Technical requirements: Not all employees may have the same technical requirements to easily use video content. Ensure that video content can be easily played on multiple devices and platforms to reach a wide range of employees.
By taking specific steps to address these challenges, organizations can successfully integrate video content for workplace safety and add lasting value to employee training and awareness.
The future of video in improving workplace safety
The evolution of video in the workplace is still at the beginning of an exciting journey. As the technology continues to evolve, fascinating possibilities are opening up that will further advance corporate safety practices.
One promising step in this direction is applying virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These technologies have the potential to change the way safety training is delivered fundamentally. VR allows employees to immerse themselves in realistic simulations and practice safety protocols in a controlled virtual environment. AR, on the other hand, augments the real world with digital information to provide workers with immediate guidance and data for their tasks.
Another promising trend is using artificial intelligence (AI) to create personalized learning paths. AI can design customized learning paths by analyzing employees’ individual learning patterns and preferences. This results in a more efficient and engaging learning experience, allowing each learning session to reach its full potential. Integrating AI into training dynamics promises to make content more customizable and relevant to each learner. Tools like simpleshow video maker already use artificial intelligence to create professional video scripts at the touch of a button and turn them into fully animated videos.
Empower Workplace Safety with EHS Video Integration
Integrating videos into workplace safety practices is more than a trend – it’s a strategic step toward creating a safer, more productive work environment. The benefits – from improved training to fostering a safety-conscious culture – are undeniable. Companies must take advantage of these advances to protect their workers and maintain their commitment to safety.
Remember, safety is not a solitary issue – it’s a shared responsibility that involves every employee. By harnessing the power of video content, we’re empowering everyone to engage in safety, protect their colleagues, and contribute to a workplace where well-being is paramount.
Harness the power of artificial intelligence and easily create workplace safety training videos today with simpleshow video maker. That’s how you can help pave the way for a safer future.
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Creating a culture of safety: The power of video in EHS communication
