However, simply repeating over and over again, “Be careful when you work,” will not solve the problem at its root.

In fact, the factors that lead to unsafe behavior can be broadly categorized, and there are appropriate training programs tailored to each factor.

In this post, I’d like to explain the causes of unsafe behavior and the types of training appropriate for different situations.

Three Factors Contributing to Unsafe Behavior and the Necessary Training

The main reasons why workers engage in unsafe behavior areQuestions testing any of the following: “Knowledge,” “Skills,” or “Attitudes”are lurking. Let's take a closer look at what each one entails.

"I Didn't Know" = [Knowledge Education]

First, there is the case where people “don’t know the correct way to do the work.”
This is becauseKnowledge-Based EducationYou must do the following.
According to the data, work-related accidents that occurred under these conditions accounted for 67% of the total, and the breakdown is as follows:

• Has not received any education or training to begin with (12%)

• I received training or instruction, but I don't remember it (55%)

Of course, I can't do things I haven't been taught, but,"I've already taught them once, so it'll be fine."Even if you think that,In more than half of the cases, workers have forgotten to do so.It is important to keep this in mind.

For situations where you “couldn’t do it,” try 【Skills Training】

The second case is when someone “knows the correct way to do the task but was unable to do it.” This includesVocational Educationis required.
This refers to a situation where, although the individual understands the theory, they lack the practical skills to apply it. About 7% of workplace accidents occur in this situation.
Specifically, this includes the following cases.

• I can't ever do it

• I just couldn't do it at that moment

3. For the "did not do" state: [Attitude Training]

The third case is one in which a person “knew the correct way to do the work and had the ability to do it, but chose not to (did not do it).” Of the total,26% is in this state; attitude trainingis required.
It is precisely because they understand the task itself that this case is considered particularly difficult to teach.
Let's proceed by tailoring our approach and methods to each individual.

Special Edition: “Accidental Mistakes” Are Human Errors

Apart from the three mentioned above, there are also mistakes that happen “without even realizing it.”
Many of them are classified as “human error.”
Human error is caused not only by a lack of individual ability or low awareness, but also by the following factors:

• Physiological state: Fatigue, the effects of alcohol or drugs, early morning or night shifts, etc.

• Psychological state: Feeling pressed for time, having worries or concerns, stress from interpersonal relationships, a poor work environment, etc.

To prevent these issues, comprehensive measures are needed—including not only education but also improvements to the workplace environment and interpersonal relationships.

When you notice unsafe behavior by a worker, rather than simply reprimanding them, it is important to analyze “why they engaged in that behavior.”
If you “don’t know,” then teach them what they need to know
If you “can’t do it,” then practice the skill, and
If they “won’t do it,” I’ll try to get them to change their attitude.
Ideally, we can create a safer workplace environment by providing appropriate training tailored to the specific causes.