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Behavior-based safety on construction sites: a case study.
1Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia.
Accident; Analysis and Prevention
|April 2, 2014
Summary
Behavior-based safety (BBS) interventions significantly improved construction site safety performance. Goal-setting, feedback, and worker participation led to fewer unsafe behaviors and increased safe practices, demonstrating broad applicability.
Area of Science:
- Construction Safety Management
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Behavioral Science in the Workplace
Background:
- Construction sites present unique safety challenges requiring effective management strategies.
- Behavior-based safety (BBS) is a critical area for improving worker protection.
- Traditional safety approaches may not fully address behavioral aspects of accidents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a behavior-based safety (BBS) intervention in a construction site environment.
- To assess the impact of goal-setting, feedback, and recognition on safety performance.
- To determine the effectiveness of a structured BBS program in reducing unsafe behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A case study approach was used to implement a rigorous BBS system and intervention program.
- Safety behavior measurements were taken before and after the intervention.
- Key components included worker participation in goal-setting, feedback charts, and supervisor recognition.
- Observers provided training, feedback, and facilitated discussions on safe practices.
Main Results:
- Safety performance scores improved significantly, rising from 86% to 92.9% within weeks.
- A notable decrease in unsafe behaviors and a substantial increase in safe behaviors were observed.
- Improvements were recorded across multiple safety categories, including PPE, housekeeping, and scaffolding.
Conclusions:
- A committed management approach utilizing goal-setting, feedback, and effective safety behavior measurement can significantly enhance construction safety.
- The BBS management technique is culturally adaptable and has wide industry application for improving front-line worker safety.
- This study validates the effectiveness of BBS as a strategy for ongoing construction projects.
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