Over the years, my colleagues at Safety Performance Solutions and I have learned, often the hard way, what it takes to translate the principles of behavior-based safety into effective action plans and long-term improvement. This article points out seven common barriers that can limit your chances of success. In fact, these pitfalls are universal in nature; you should watch out for them when implementing almost any type of program in the workplace.
This cynical attitude occurs when people are not taught the principles, rationale, research, or corporate mission behind a program. They are just shown how to do it, perhaps by a co-worker who has just learned himself. I’ve heard, for example, that some behavior-based safety consultants advocate teaching observation and feedback procedures to a select few employees, expecting that the steps will eventually spread throughout the organization.