Emily H. Sparer, Paul J. Catalano,

Robert F. Herrick, Jack T. Dennerlein

May 8, 2015

Improving Construction Site Safety Communication and Climate through a

Safety Communication and Recognition Program

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Study Rationale and Goal

• Lagging indicator-based safety incentive program• Recognizes low injury rates• Communicates the importance of reduction in injury reporting, not

actual injuries (Lipscomb et al. 2013, AJIM)

• Leading indicator-based safety incentive program• Recognizes creation and maintenance of safe working conditions

Study Goal: Evaluate the efficacy of a leading indicator safety incentive program on safety conditions.

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B-SAFE: Safety Communication and Recognition Program

Sparer et al., 2015, New Solutions

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Study Design

• Cluster randomized controlled trial• Eight worksites (4 intervention matched w/ 4 control)• ~5 months/site

• Pre/post exposure safety

climate analysis• 9-item (90-point) scale

(Dedobbleleer and Beland, 1991)

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Study Sample (n=615) • Response rate: 74%• Male (97%)• White (83%)• Union members (98%)• Mean age: 42• Journeymen (61%)• Mechanical trades (63%)

Mixed Effects Regression Model

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ModelOther variables

included in modelEffect

estimateN

Standard error

P-value

Model 1 – Unadjusted -- 1.98 604 1.37 0.15

Model 2 – Adjusted

•Worksite pair 2.06 604 0.85 0.016

Model 3 – Adjusted

•Worksite pair •Worker trade•Title•Race/ethnicity•Month started on-site•Total of time on-site

2.29 600 0.91 0.012

Primary independent variable: treatment effect (control/intervention)Dependent variable: change in pre- and post- B-SAFE exposure safety climate Random effect: site variable

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Study Conclusions• Programs that engage all workers by

recognizing safe working conditions and strong communication offer an alternative to controversial lagging indicator-based programs

• Simple programs that build upon existing site programs and policies can have a positive and sustainable impact on worksite health and safety

Thank you!

emily.sparer@mail.harvard.edu

www.northeastern.edu/b-safe