Rick Ricker

If information alone prevented injuries, safety would already be solved—yet incidents still happen. So, what are we missing? This engaging and interactive session will challenge the common assumption that people make mistakes simply because they “don’t know better.” Instead, it will explore how the brain is actually wired to rely on habits, shortcuts, and emotional responses—especially under pressure, fatigue, or distraction. Participants can expect to engage in some “brain exercises” as they explore the basic concepts of neuroscience and human factors and how they shape everyday decisions. More importantly, this session will reframe feedback—not as correction or criticism—but as a powerful tool that works with the brain, not against it. Participants will leave with practical, easy-to-use strategies to deliver feedback that sticks, influence behavior in the moment, and strengthen safety conversations across their teams. Expect to tap into your brain to reflect, participate, and walk away thinking differently about why people do what they do—and what can help them to do it better.