E. Scott Geller

Most readers are familiar with the common phrase, “The errors of our ways.“ So why am I talking about the intention of our ways -- not errors – in this article?

You can’t deny the critical role of human dynamics when analyzing contributing factors to a workplace injury, or when developing interventions to prevent injuries and improve occupational safety and health.

We do what we do to obtain, avoid, or escape certain consequences. Consequences we work to obtain are termed "positive reinforcers." Consequences we attempt to avoid are "negative reinforcers."

If practiced routinely and extensively, the seven life lessons reviewed here will do more than prevent workplace injuries. Human welfare will be improved by less interpersonal conflict and bullying, and enhanced work productivity, environmental sustainability and life satisfaction.

In management literature, empowerment refers to delegating authority or responsibility. In other words, when a supervisor says, "I empower you," s/he means, "Get 'er done ASAP."

Every reader has heard the term "feedback," and probably realizes the critical connection between behavioral feedback and behavior-based safety (BBS).

Many articles about incentives, rewards, recognition, and positive reinforcers reflect naiveté about human motivation. Have you been confused by the language discrepancies regarding these terms?