The Safety "Butterfly Effect"
The "butterfly effect" says that any small change in a complex system can have large effects elsewhere. For example: Every time a supervisor gives an employee positive recognition for a safe behavior, it reinforces that behavior and makes it more likely to occur in the future.
That small interaction between the supervisor and employee may also send a positive message about safety that has a ripple effect throughout the entire organization. You can't really predict exactly what might result, but it could result in an increase in that same and other safe behaviors, both in the workplace and at home.
Any small change in a complex system can have large effects elsewhere.
On the other hand, if a supervisor yells at employees for "complaining," a very negative message is sent. It says employees are, in some way, not "OK." And, just as the butterfly effect occurs with positive recognition, negative messages can have a profound negative impact on production, services, and morale.
However, I think the worst possible form of recognition occurs when employees are totally ignored no matter how great their performance is. That sends the message that they don't exist. Let's talk a little more about the negative impact of ignoring others.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-7. According to the "butterfly effect," what will happen when a supervisor recognizes an employee for a safe behavior?
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