Behavior-Based Safety Toolbox Talk

Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) focuses on identifying and reinforcing safe work behaviors while reducing actions that can lead to injuries or incidents. Although hazards must always be controlled through elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE), worker behaviors also play an important role in maintaining a safe workplace. A successful BBS program encourages observation, communication, coaching, and positive reinforcement to build a stronger safety culture.

This toolbox talk reviews the principles of behavior-based safety, common unsafe behaviors, and how every worker can help create a safer construction site.

Why This Matters

• Safe behaviors help reduce the likelihood of incidents and injuries.
• Positive observations encourage workers to continue following safe practices.
• Open communication helps identify unsafe conditions before incidents occur.
• Peer engagement strengthens teamwork and shared responsibility for safety.
• A proactive safety culture supports continuous improvement across the jobsite.

Common Unsafe Behaviors

• Taking shortcuts instead of following established procedures.
• Failing to wear or properly use required PPE.
• Ignoring hazards or failing to report unsafe conditions.
• Using tools or equipment improperly.
• Working while distracted, rushed, or fatigued.
• Bypassing safety guards or protective devices.
• Failing to communicate during high-risk tasks.
• Assuming someone else will address a safety concern.

Safety Checklist

Before Work Begins

• Review the task, associated hazards, and required control measures.
• Verify required PPE, tools, and equipment are available and in good condition.
• Participate in the pre-job briefing and ask questions if anything is unclear.
• Identify opportunities to perform the task safely without unnecessary shortcuts.
• Encourage coworkers to follow safe work practices.
• Understand the procedure for reporting hazards or unsafe behaviors.

During the Workday

• Follow established work procedures and safety requirements consistently.
• Observe work activities for both safe and unsafe behaviors.
• Provide respectful, constructive feedback when unsafe actions are observed.
• Recognize and reinforce safe behaviors demonstrated by coworkers.
• Report hazards, near misses, and unsafe conditions promptly.
• Stop and reassess if conditions change or new hazards develop.

Crew Talking Points

• What safe behaviors are most important for today's tasks?
• What shortcuts might workers be tempted to take, and how can they be avoided?
• How should we approach a coworker if we observe an unsafe behavior?
• What positive safety behaviors have you observed recently?
• How can everyone contribute to improving the site's safety culture?
• Speak up immediately if you observe unsafe behaviors, changing conditions, or opportunities to improve safety.

Stop Work If

• Workers are performing tasks without required safety controls.
• Unsafe behaviors create an immediate risk of injury.
• Required PPE or protective equipment is missing or not being used.
• Workers are bypassing established procedures or safety devices.
• Hazards cannot be adequately controlled.
• You are unsure how to safely perform the assigned task.

Final Reminder

Behavior-Based Safety is about making safe choices every day and supporting one another in doing the same. Follow established procedures, recognize positive safety behaviors, address unsafe actions respectfully, and report hazards promptly. When everyone actively participates in safety, the entire team benefits from a stronger, safer workplace.