We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

908 Offshore Oil and Gas Safety I
Skip to main content

Behavior-Based Safety Observation Programs

Many contractors use behavior-based safety model as a job observation system program that aims to proactively identify and develop positive safety behaviors and procedures.

Formal and informal observation can help detect unsafe behaviors before they cause an injury.

This effort requires that designated observers watch workers perform hazardous procedures during the normal course of work. Observations can be unscheduled and informal or they may be developed as part of a formal process. When unsafe behaviors or procedures are observed, they can be immediately corrected and procedures revised to prevent future incidents.

To increase the likelihood of success, companies should participate in behavior-based programs only the following is true:

  • The company's safety culture will support it. Adequate trust must exist between labor and management.
  • Discipline, as a result of observations, must not occur. This rule is most critical in creating trust and the long-term success of the program.
  • The effort must be appropriate and applicable to the worksite location (e.g. drilling).
  • Both management and employees must be allowed to make observations.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-5. Which of the following is most critical to the long-term success of a behavior-based safety program?