Influences on safety consciousness in a utility company: A sequential mediation model.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this research was to determine whether the influence of supervisory support for safety on safety consciousness is direct or indirect. Based in part on predictions from the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), we examined the extent to which belief (safety self-efficacy) and attitude (cavalier safety attitude) mediate the impact of supervisory support for safety on employee safety consciousness. METHOD: A survey of 995 employees was distributed across 24 work groups in an electric utility company, and sequential mediation modeling was used to determine indirect effects on safety consciousness. RESULTS: We found that the effect of supervisory support on safety consciousness was indirect, fully mediated through both efficacy and attitude in a sequential mediation model. Practical applications: Supervisors should be aware of and emphasize supportive behaviors and create welcoming conditions for employees to raise safety concerns. Furthermore, organizational programs pertaining to safety improvement need to consider how to develop positive beliefs regarding safety activity and attitudes and reduce negative ones.