A systematic review of antecedents of workers’ safety behavior: A grounded theory analysis

Abstract

As a key contributor of workplace safety, workers’ safety behavior remains a focal point for both enterprises and society. While numerous studies have covered a wide range of topics related to the antecedents of workers’ safety behavior, a cohesive system has yet to be established. Therefore, a comprehensive review and categorization of the antecedents is necessary for the academic community. Consequently, this study first thoroughly defines and systematizes the dimensions of safety behavior. Then, utilizing grounded theory, 230 articles from key journals were screened, resulting in the identification of 17 core categories of antecedents related to workers’ safety behavior, spanning individual, managerial, enterprise and work situation levels. A comprehensive framework of antecedents of workers’ safety behavior was constructed by analyzing the relationships among these core categories. The research results offer practitioners a theoretical framework and practical guidance to improve workers’ safety behavior through policy formulation and behavioral decision-making.