Evaluating worksite-based interventions that promote safety belt use

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of worksite-based interventions in increasing the use of safety belts among employees.

Using the Cochrane Collaboration search strategy, we searched in electronic databases, review articles, U.S. government documents, and reports of research agencies.

Studies had to be evaluations of worksite-based interventions with a clear description of the program. The outcomes evaluated were the percentage of drivers using their safety belts before and after the intervention and (when possible) after a follow-up period. Safety belt use had to be measured in an objective manner, and a comparison group was necessary.

Forty-eight interventions met the selection criteria. All interventions increased safety belt use among employees, and in 16 the increases were significant (p<0.05). In 15 of the 33 interventions in which follow-up observations were reported, safety belt use continued significantly higher than at baseline. Different strategies (and combinations of strategies) were used across interventions. Interventions incorporating incentives seemed to have stronger effects in increasing safety belt use.

All reviewed interventions had a positive impact on increasing driver use of safety belts. However, it is important to note the low baseline safety belt use existing at the time when the studies took place, the short-term duration of most interventions, and the short-term follow-up reported (if any). More rigorous research in contemporary worksites is needed.