International recognition for Vector safety DVD

Vector has taken a novel approach to health and safety, creating a safety DVD fronted by Kiwi entertainer Pio Terei to spice up what is often considered a fairly dry subject. The ‘movie’ has been viewed by thousands of Vector employees and contractors throughout New Zealand, and the company has received international recognition for its efforts.

‘Crossing the road to safety’ was produced for Vector by Auckland motion media company Omnicron, which swept aside entries from around the world to take out first prize in the safety category at the 31st Annual Telly Awards in New York. The awards attracted 11,000 DVD entries in an array of categories, and Omnicron’s Andrew Eggelton, the DVD’s producer, says the video was praised by the US judging panel for its creativity and technical excellence.

The win was quickly followed by a third place and a Certificate for Creative Excellence in the prestigious 43rd annual US International Film and Video Festival in Los Angeles – an equally tough competition, also featuring entries from 25 countries. The Vector entry was the only success from a New Zealand company.

Vector chief executive Simon Mackenzie says the video has been extensively used at safety training days around New Zealand and has been well received by staff. “The personable nature of Pio quickly captures the imagination of viewers while delivering critical safety and bestpractice messages for our staff and contracted service providers like Northpower, Electrix, Treescape and other contractors,” he says.

“Safety is paramount in our operations. Vector is totally committed to the safety of staff, contractors and members of the public, and it is important we have complete staff buyin to health and safety procedures,” Mr Mackenzie adds. “We have an extensive health and safety programme, and we launched this DVD at our annual H&S day which is held throughout New Zealand. People attended in Christchurch, Wellington, Taranaki, Hamilton and Auckland. We had 2000 people attend a session held at Vector Arena and we continue to use the video during staff inductions.”

In acknowledging the work of Pio Terei and Omnicron, Mr Mackenzie says the awards are a reminder of how well local businesses can compete on the international stage. Mr Eggelton agrees: “It only took four days to shoot in Henderson late last year with 10 crew, and apart from Pio, the entire cast was made up from Vector employees,” he says. “Editing was completed in less than two weeks, but the real key to it was the presence of Pio. He is a huge ambassador for safety in New Zealand, and he relates very well to everyday Kiwis.

“We wanted Vector staff to connect with the theme of the video from the moment it started, so we began it in quite dramatic fashion with a car accident. From there, it’s one man’s journey, and the viewer is learning through Pio’s eyes.”

To view the DVD, visit www.vector.co.nz/safety