The AWB is co-sponsoring a new advertising campaign aimed at raising awareness about workplace safety, an issue that takes on particular importance during an economic recession.
The centerpiece ad, called "Homecomings," shows several people coming from home from work to their families while one boy waits nervously for his dad to pull into the driveway.
It concludes with the reminder that on average two people die per week in Washington from on-the-job injuries and illnesses. Viewers are directed to the state Department of Labor and Industries Web site for resources for making workplaces safer.
"These ads are particularly effective at bringing home the importance of safety in the workplace and the effects it can have on so many people," said AWB President Don Brunell. "When an accident happens at work, it affects everyone - family, friends and co-workers."
The state Department of Labor and Industries purchased the licensing rights to an award-winning Australian ad campaign and modified it for Washington residents, including adding voice-overs to eliminate the Australian accent.
Judy Schurke, L&I director, said that businesses may be tempted to cut corners on workplace safety during hard times, and workers who fear they will not be able to find another job may not speak up about unsafe conditions.
The other partners in the campaign include the Washington State Labor Council, Associated General Contractors and the Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council.
The ads, which cost about $450,000, will air in May and June, and again in September and October, with some radio advertising also airing in July and August. Shows during which the ads will air include the American Idol finale, Saturday Night Live, the Indy 500 and Ice Road Truckers.
As part of the campaign, AWB also is sponsoring the 7th Inning Stretch during six Seattle Mariners games on the Fox Sports Network in May and June.
The AWB has a history of helping promote workplace safety through its CompWise Retro program, which helps companies keep workers' comp rates low and minimize risk.
