Behavioral Perspectives on Variability in Human Behavior as Part of Process Safety

Lebbon et al. (2017) wrote a theory paper. They asked why workers keep taking safety shortcuts.

They used basic ABA ideas: reinforcement, habit, and rule control. No new data were collected.

The authors say risky choices are operant. Fast production pay and peer laughs strengthen shortcuts.

Over time the risky move becomes a habit. Workers stop noticing the danger.

Cicero (2021) extends the same logic to ethics. She says BCBA misconduct is also operant, not a character flaw.

Udhnani et al. (2025) give lab proof. College students followed rules that paid more, even when the rules were wrong.

Bailey et al. (1990) showed rats do the same. When food was scarce they gambled for big pay-offs. Workers gamble when bonuses are scarce.

Cohen et al. (1993) listed child-safety rules that cut injury. Lebbon urges the same data-driven list for factory rules.

Stop calling workers careless. Look at the contingencies you control.

Add immediate rewards for safe acts. Remove pay that rewards speed alone.

Track near-miss data like response rate. Graph it and adjust consequences. You will see safer behavior climb.