Problem: Safety incentives, defined broadly as reward techniques used to im
prove health and safety results, do not always produce the desired results.
Method: Using structural equation modeling and cross-level analysis proced
ures, this study investigated the relationships between individual and grou
p-level variables, and reactions to a safety incentive program at a product
ion plant. Results: The data obtained from 329 team members support most of
the predicted relationships. At the individual level of analysis, locus of
control influenced supervisor-subordinate relationships, which, in turn, i
nfluenced perceived organizational support and reactions to safety incentiv
es. At the group level, the interaction between group cohesiveness, safety
norms, and task interdependence had a significant effect on reactions to sa
fety incentives. Discussion: The findings provide some insights into the fu
nctioning of safety incentives in a team environment. Impact on industry: T
hese findings indicate that safety incentive programs are more likely to be
effective components of health and safety strategies when they are impleme
nted in settings with positive supervisor-subordinate relationships and wit
hin interdependent teams that share safety norms. (C) 2001 National Safety
Council and Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.