Challenge:
EllisDon, a leader in the construction industry, wanted to create a recognition program that went beyond individual achievements. Their goal was to celebrate the collective efforts of teams in upholding their core value of “Safety First, Safety Always.” They sought a program that would stand out, foster accountability and inclusion, and bring attention to the importance of safety culture in the workplace.
Solution:
EllisDon took a highly creative approach by incorporating a hockey theme into their recognition program. They introduced the EllisDon Safety Cup, modeled after the iconic Stanley Cup, as a legacy trophy to honor teams that exemplify accountability, engagement, leadership, and performance in safety.
To complement the main trophy, EllisDon wanted smaller awards for individual team members. Although a mini Stanley Cup wasn’t available, Nothers provided a unique and fitting alternative: a hockey puck trophy. This solution not only tied into the hockey theme but also offered a tangible way for individuals to commemorate their contributions to team success.
Benefit/Outcome:
The hockey-themed program was a standout success, showcasing EllisDon’s commitment to recognizing safety as a collaborative effort. By using creative awards, the program captured the attention of employees and reinforced the message that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
The inaugural EllisDon Safety Cup was awarded to the Special Projects Division for their exceptional teamwork and dedication to creating a safe work environment. The program highlighted the importance of team-driven accountability and celebrated their ability to foster a culture where every voice—from management to the newest team member—was valued.
Key Takeaways:
- Creativity Amplifies Impact: The hockey theme made this program unique and engaging, proving that recognition doesn’t have to follow traditional formats.
- Teamwork Matters: Recognizing collaborative efforts emphasizes that safety is a shared responsibility and strengthens team dynamics.
- Encourage Innovation in Recognition: EllisDon’s program serves as a reminder to think outside the box when developing recognition initiatives. Tailoring awards to your company’s values and culture makes them more meaningful.
At Nothers, we encourage other organizations to be just as innovative in celebrating safety and teamwork. Recognition programs like EllisDon’s Safety Cup show that with a bit of creativity, you can inspire pride, foster engagement, and highlight the importance of collective achievements in a memorable way.