What is behavior-based safety and give an example?

• A. A safety approach focusing on safe behaviors
• B. A safety approach focusing on equipment maintenance
• C. A punitive safety approach
• D. A hazard recognition program only

Answer: (A)

Behavior-based safety focuses on the actions people take and how those actions influence safety. It uses observation, feedback, and positive reinforcement to encourage safe behaviors and reduce risky ones. For example, on a production line, a supervisor might watch how a worker lifts a heavy load, checking that they bend the knees, keep the load close to the body, wear the required PPE, and follow lockout/tagout procedures. When safe practices are observed, they receive immediate positive feedback or praise; if unsafe actions occur, they’re coached on the correct way to perform the task. This approach targets everyday behavior to build safer habits and complements—not replaces—engineering controls and procedures. It’s distinct from focusing only on equipment maintenance, which looks at the tools and machines themselves; it isn’t a punitive system, and it isn’t just a hazard-recognition program.