Improving Human Performance

Electrical safety incidents and injuries can be the result of inappropriate work behavior or what is referred to as “unsafe acts.” These occur although training and education have been provided on electrical hazards and their possible consequences. Providing training to people is not enough to motivate them to follow the procedures. When unsupervised, those people who are aware of the hazards may still believe that they are qualified to take risks because previous “unsafe acts” have not resulted in an incident. This paper will provide information on what motivates people to intrinsically follow proper electrical safety procedures. By understanding these principles, human performance can be positively changed, and the electrical work practices of personnel can be improved to consistently follow safe work procedures.