Encouraging safe behaviors in the workplace is part of an effective safety program. One attendee doubled back after he was back in the workplace to clarify the use of “X# of days without an accident” sign.
Q: In the 10-hour Cal-OSHA course you told us that OSHA discouraged the use of “X# of days without an Accident” signs because they could possibly encourage a worker not to report an injury. Does this still hold true if there is no physical or financial reward for milestones (i.e., 1 month, 1 year) achieved?
A: Yes, OSHA discourages using incentives that could hinder an employee from reporting injuries. (See: Employee Safety Incentive and Disincentive Policies and Practices.)
However, it is not a violation to just have a sign indicating the safe work days.
I would encourage you to use a sign like this in concert with a comprehensive program that encourages positive safe behaviors and employee involvement. It can be one piece of an overall effective safety program. It is the amount of emphasis and how it is used that can be problematic.