Understanding reactions to safety incentives

Abstract

Problem: Safety incentives, defined broadly as reward techniques used to improve health and safety results, do not always produce the desired results. Method: Using structural equation modeling and cross-level analysis procedures, this study investigated the relationships between individual and group-level variables, and reactions to a safety incentive program at a production plant. Results: The data obtained from 329 team members support most of the predicted relationships. At the individual level of analysis, locus of control influenced supervisor–subordinate relationships, which, in turn, influenced perceived organizational support and reactions to safety incentives. At the group level, the interaction between group cohesiveness, safety norms, and task interdependence had a significant effect on reactions to safety incentives. Discussion: The findings provide some insights into the functioning of safety incentives in a team environment. Impact on industry: These findings indicate that safety incentive programs are more likely to be effective components of health and safety strategies when they are implemented in settings with positive supervisor–subordinate relationships and within interdependent teams that share safety norms.