![[ Visit Client Website ]](images/banner.png)
BACKGROUND: Roberto, a tree trimmer in California, died tragically on June 9, 2012, when he was asphyxiated by palm tree fronds. His story is told through a compelling video that highlights investigation findings from the California Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (CA/FACE) program. FACE is a National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOSH)-funded program that tracks and investigates worker deaths, and develops prevention recommendations. The goal of the video is to prevent palm tree worker fatalities. These short videos bring FACE fatality investigations to life with incident re-creations; photos from the investigation, interviews with co-workers, employers, and families; and clear explanations of how these tragedies can be prevented.
METHODS: Program staff adapted the video script from the CA/FACE fatality investigation report, and provided photography and video direction. Co-workers, employers, and family members of the victim were invited to participate. Topic experts from industry and NIOSH provided technical review. The story shows the devastating impact of using improper work procedures and equipment by including re-enactment and investigation photos, video, music, narration, and recommended prevention practices. This video will be widely disseminated to tree trimming/landscaping workers and employers, trade associations, health & safety professionals, government agencies, and others. The California Department of Public Health and NIOSH will promote the video through social media and e-newsletters, aiming to prompt numerous re-posts through Facebook, Twitter, organizational blogs, listservs, and e-newsletters.
RESULTS: The safety messages in these personal stories resonate with workers as they experience first-hand the personal devastation that these incidents cause. Almost 150 workers evaluated a similar CA/FACE video as part of tailgate trainings on fall prevention. Ninety-two percent of workers rated the video ‘excellent’ or ‘good’, and 90% reported that it made them want to participate more in the training. This new video was produced in collaboration with government, trade associations, and local fire departments, and they plan to include it in national training programs.
CONCLUSIONS: The CA/FACE videos are a unique and powerful way to bring those affected by workplace tragedies together for a common goal: preventing worker fatalities. They are an important addition to written FACE materials for safety training, and are now being produced by other FACE states and NIOSH.