Outcome-and-behavior-based safety incentive program to reduce accidents: A case study of a fluid manufacturing plant

Abstract

The study proposed an outcome-and-behavior-based safety incentive program (OBBSIP). The study addressed the limitation of outcome-based program, i.e. accidents underreporting and behavior-based safety program, i.e. not having direct link to safety performance. The OBBSIP has two principles, i.e. an outcome-based approach through tiered incentives and a behavior-based approach through regular peer monitoring and feedbacks on compliance with safety precautions and safe behaviors (SPSB). Its effectiveness is validated through a case study i.e. a field experiment in dairy fluid plants. An AB (baseline-treatment) method was used to compare an experimental plant with a control plant. Results show that the program reduced the number of accident by 75% (measured by claims). The program created a positive work environment through (1) social influence where there was peer pressure to comply with the SPSB to help reduce accidents; (2) outcome feedback from the Bingo board updates, and positive and negative feedbacks on compliance/non-compliance with the SPSB; and (3) social recognition e.g. team members’ praises and small incentive awards. Prior literature provided explanation for the program’s effectiveness, i.e. the combination of social influence, feedback and tiered incentive awards with achievable goals. The program is low cost, easy to understand and effective in reducing accidents.