Behavior-Based Safety Considerations

10/15/2019

by Jim Wirth

You have conducted the required training but your associates are not following the processes covered in the training. Are they deliberately breaking the rules? Don’t they understand? Do they care? Ideally the answers would be no, yes and yes; however, there is one more item to consider: human behavior.

Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) is a topic that has been around for quite a while. BBS originated with the work of Herbert William Heinrich. In the 1930’s, Heinrich, who worked for Travelers Insurance Company, reviewed thousands of accident reports completed by supervisors. From these he drew conclusion that most accidents, illnesses and injuries were directly attributable to “worker-failures,” or the unsafe actions of workers. Of the reports Heinrich reviewed, 73 percent were classified as “worker failures.” Heinrich himself reclassified another 15 percent into that category, arriving at the still-cited finding that 88 percent of all accidents, injuries and illnesses were caused by workers error.

However, in recent years there has been disagreement to Heinrich’s theories. The most common concern is that Heinrich blamed the worker for workplace accidents. The fact that most accidents are a result of unsafe behavior does not mean the worker did it on purpose but in fact, may not have had proper training or tools. For example, someone stands on a chair, a voice in their head says, “You shouldn’t be doing this,” while the other voice says, “It’s ok, it doesn’t have wheels and I’ll be careful."

This justification or rationale is something we all face whether at home, work or in our vehicles. We must include in training, the importance giving workers permission to take the time to do the task correctly using the proper tools. This is true in any area of employment, private and public. Workers that perform a service such as schools and the related disciplines that support them face hazards unique to the educational environment. Your customers, the students come to your environment everyday so must also be protected from hazards. This permission includes providing the tools, time and environment that promotes a safe workplace.

Finally, consider one more human behavior, the need to feel included. In a group setting this translates into your associates wanting to "fit in." Understand that most people are supportive of safety processes and appreciate the need for working safely but do not wish to be subjected to bullying which unfortunately, can and does occur in the workplace. This issue varies and improvements are being made but are important to be mindful of. 

For more information contact Jim Wirth 614.827.0370 or jim.wirth@careworkscomp.com.