117 Introduction to Safety Recognition

Operant Conditioning

1. Reinforcement increases the behavior or makes it more likely to occur.
2. Punishment decreases the behavior or makes it less likely to occur.

Recognition may be a positive or negative consequence, depending on the circumstances. So, let's first take a look at positive and negative reinforcement, and why positive reinforcement is best in producing a world-class safety culture.

• It will increase desired behavior.
• The desired behaviors may actually be safe or unsafe.
• Workers perform to receive a positive consequence.
• Workers may perform far beyond minimum standards - discretionary effort.
• If the desired behavior is to work safe, no matter what - it's a success-based strategy.
• If the desired behavior is to work fast, not necessarily safe - it's a failure-based strategy.
• This strategy is more effective if the goal is to achieve a world-class safety culture.

It's important to know that "desired" behaviors may not always be safe behaviors. Unfortunately, this may be true in safety cultures where it's more important to work fast than safe. Working fast, not safe, is management's top priority. This is especially true when the employer is under pressure to finish a project on time. Here are some examples that show how perceived positive reinforcement can increase both safe and unsafe behaviors:

• Positive reinforcement of a safe behavior: If you comply with safety rules, the supervisor thanks you.
• Positive reinforcement of an unsafe behavior: If you take safety shortcuts to get work done ahead of schedule, your supervisor gives you time off.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.