Welcome to the October edition of CORESafety TV — the online video series from the National Mining Association (NMA). People are more effectively motivated by positive reinforcement than with negative consequences. Positive reinforcement works best when leaders respond right away after seeing someone who is doing things right. Informally, a simple word of encouragement such as “good job” or a quick written “thank you” note can have significant impacts on the recipient as well as other miners who may be nearby. Positive reinforcement can also be more formal if you choose – perhaps in the form of public recognition, symbolic recognition or a reward of some type.

In this episode of CORESafety TV, we go in-depth to explore reinforcement and recognition, and to learn how they are integral parts of the Plan-Do-Check-Act model. You’ll also learn:

• How positive reinforcement aligns workers more closely with the company
• Why leaders should focus on external factors to improve safety performance
• What CORESafety’s Module #9 says about reinforcement and recognition

Please take just a few minutes to watch this episode and then share it with your management team and workforce.