BEHAVIOR-BASED SAFETY: A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE FOR PEOS

Behavior Based Safety (BBS) is not a new concept. Early safety research emphasized behavioral factors as a primary contributor to workplace incidents, while modern safety management recognizes that incidents typically result from multiple interacting causes. One of the most influential early frameworks was developed in the 1930s by H.W. Heinrich, whose research focused on the role of unsafe behaviors in workplace incidents. As part of this research, Heinrich developed what became known as the Accident Triangle, which suggested that for approximately every 300 near misses, there were approximately 29 incidents resulting in minor injuries, and for every 29 of these incidents there was one major injury. The underlying theory was that placing greater emphasis on reducing unsafe behaviors may help reduce the likelihood of serious injuries. Heinrich’s research influenced organizations to begin focusing on leading indicators of risk, such as near-miss reporting, rather than relying on lagging indicators like incident reports and loss runs.

THE ROLE OF A BBS PROGRAM

A BBS program is designed to engage employees in safety and in developing and strengthening the overall safety culture of the organization. BBS programs help foster a positive safety culture for clients seeking to reduce workplace accidents and injuries. These programs can influence not only the safety culture but also the broader workplace culture by encouraging open communication between management and the frontline employees. BBS programs are designed to give employees an active part in the safety program by identifying safety concerns and suggesting potential improvements.

This approach often includes structured job observations that help identify hazards and appropriate controls while informing the development of safety best practices. Employees who perform the work are well positioned to provide practical insight into task-related risks and effective mitigation strategies. When implemented effectively, BBS programs may support the development of job descriptions, job safety analyses (JSAs), and near miss reporting procedures, while providing employees with a meaningful role in strengthening their employers’ safety program. BBS provides an avenue for employees to discuss their concerns, suggest solutions, and take an active role in the safety culture of the organization. This eliminates the old style of safety management where the rules typically came from the top and were implemented with no input by the actual employee performing the job. Employee participation does not alter or transfer the employer’s responsibility for workplace safety compliance.

Organizations that implement BBS can engage employees directly, and when the employees feel that their knowledge and contributions to the safety program are valued, the employees are likely to become more involved in developing and maintaining a safety culture. Involving employees in these processes can also encourage adherence to safety procedures, as employees are more likely to understand and support practices they helped shape. When employees buy in to the BBS they win, the client wins, and the PEO wins.

A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

So how can BBS become a competitive advantage for PEOs?

A common argument for companies implementing safety programs and safety training involves the increased costs. However, the benefits have proven to outweigh the perceived costs. Some safety industry studies suggest that investments in workplace safety programs may result in cost savings of $3 to $6 savings for every $1 they spend on behavior-based safety programs (OSHA does not formally endorse or guarantee specific cost savings or financial outcomes from Behavior-Based Safety programs. Reported savings figures are based on select industry studies and may vary widely depending on implementation, industry, and workforce). When introducing a BBS program to a client, the PEO can focus on the benefits that outweigh the perceived costs of implementation. BBS programs are intended to support clients in their efforts to reduce workplace risks and may assist in reducing both claim frequency and severity. Companies that implement BBS are focusing on unsafe behaviors which have a direct correlation to a reduction in the frequency of accidents/injuries, which in turn may result in fewer and potentially less severe workers’ compensation claims. Working with clients to develop BBS helps the client “win” while also reaping benefits for the PEO. The BBS programs may help clients create a safer working environment, lower premium costs, improve employee morale, and improve profit margins, as well as many other potential benefits. Effectiveness of a BBS program depends on proper program design, management commitment, and ongoing compliance with applicable safety regulations.

In today’s market, companies of all types are looking for competitive advantages and opportunities to differentiate themselves by offering value-added services. For PEOs, introducing a BBS program can provide clients with access to a structured safety approach they may not otherwise be aware of or have the resources to implement on their own. A BBS program typically requires a shift in both company culture and safety culture for the program to be successful. However, if the time is invested to implement BBS correctly, it can help PEO clients in some cases reduce accidents and injuries, lower medical costs, and lower worker’s compensation premiums.

Legal Notice: This document is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, regulatory, safety, or insurance advice. Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) programs are intended to complement, not replace, an employer’s responsibility to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local workplace safety laws and regulations, including OSHA requirements.

Implementation of a BBS program does not guarantee reductions in workplace injuries, workers’ compensation claims, premiums, or other business outcomes. Results may vary based on industry, workforce, management commitment, and regulatory environment. PEOs and their clients should evaluate Behavior-Based Safety programs in light of their specific operations, workforce, and applicable regulatory requirements.