We have all seen them; most of us have used them to deliver a safety message. Let me say this up-front: it is never the banner's fault!
A SAFTENG member was reading my posts about "safety banners" and contacted me to discuss their use. They were convinced I was 100% against using "safety banners" after reading my rants against their use. I had to point out that it was not the banner's fault but the lack of management reflecting the messaging on the banner(s). This dual messaging/actions conflict is how the banners can do more harm than good.
When I used banners, and I always used banners at my facilities, I followed this time-tested method:
1) Get a solid message!
Stay away from slogans like "Safety is #1." Focus on the SMS/Safety Process messaging. We want workers to read the banner and then be able to see what they are communicating VISUALLY.
2) Get 100% buy-in from management on the banner messaging.
Managers MUST understand that their individual safety messaging AND ACTIONS MUST reflect what is on these banners. *Refer to #1 above - meaning, they have to personally agree with the messaging and REFLECT that in their actions and decision-making regarding safety matters.
3) Get 100% buy-in from the safety committee on the banner messaging.
In the early days of this formal safety communication process, the banners MUST have a consistent message across the entire facility. As the program/culture matures, then we can begin department/unit-specific messaging, but this is usually a year or two into the process.
4) Use banners of different sizes, colors, and shapes with different messaging AND rotate these banners at least monthly, if not more often.
Banners can become "wallpaper" to workers if we do not keep them "fresh." Using different sizes, colors, and shapes AND placing them in varying locations within the area will help our message be more visible and, thus, better communicated.
5) KEEP banners in PRISTINE condition!
As soon as there is a tear, hole, fray, or fading, GET RID OF IT! The $100 to replace the banner is cheaper than the damage a damaged safety banner can do to our credibility and messaging!
