Experimental analysis of using examples and non-examples in safety training.

INTRODUCTION: The effects of training content consisting of examples and/or non-examples was studied on the acquisition of safety-related skills.

METHOD: Participants (N=160) were randomly assigned to first receive computer-based training on office ergonomics that included either no examples of safe or at-risk postures, safe examples only, at-risk examples only, or both safe and at-risk examples. Participants then attempted to classify as safe or at-risk various postures depicted in short video clips and demonstrate with their own posture the range of safe postures.

RESULTS: Groups that were trained with both safe and at-risk examples showed greater classification accuracy and less error in their demonstration of safe postures. Training with only safe or at-risk examples resulted in a moderate amount of error and a consistent underestimation of risk.

CONCLUSION: Training content consisting of both examples and non-examples improved acquisition of safety-related skills.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The strategic selection of training content may improve identification of risks and safe work practices.