What is most likely to increase when an operator does not follow established operating procedures?

When an operator does not adhere to established operating procedures, the risk of accidents is the most likely outcome to increase. Operating procedures are put in place to ensure safety protocols are followed, equipment is utilized correctly, and processes are executed as intended. When these guidelines are ignored, it can lead to misunderstandings, equipment misuse, and unsafe behaviors, which significantly raise the chances of an accident occurring.

The absence of proper adherence to procedures can compromise safety measures that are critical in preventing mishaps, thereby making the workplace more hazardous not just for the operator, but for other individuals in the area as well. In contrast, the other factors—such as equipment efficiency, product quality, and time efficiency—are likely to degrade or become compromised under such circumstances rather than improve.