Effect of training and feedback: Component analysis of a behavioral safety program

Abstract

Desired safety practices were behaviorally defined for 4 sections of a city's vehicle maintenance division; a total of 55 employees differing in age and seniority participated. A total of 165 observations were conducted over 45 wks. A multiple-baseline design with a reversal component was used in which 5 conditions were introduced: (a) baseline, (b) Training Only 1 (desired practices were discussed, illustrated, and posted), (c) Training and Feedback 1 (supervisors observed daily and provided feedback about the section safety level on graphs), (d) Training Only 2, and (e) Training and Feedback 2. Whereas employees showed only slight improvements during the Training Only 1 phase, their performance increased substantially during the Training and Feedback 1 phase. At this point, it was concluded that the provision of training alone is not a sufficient means of improving and maintaining performance. This conclusion was confirmed during the Training Only 2 phase when performance declined. Performance improved once again during the Training and Feedback 2 phase, but only when feedback was provided at least 3 times/wk. This qualification raises questions concerning the maintenance of performance gains and supervisory support. (31 ref) (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)