Which factor is likely to reduce the effectiveness of safety protocols?

The factor that is most likely to reduce the effectiveness of safety protocols is a lack of employee awareness of safety rules. When employees are not aware of the safety protocols in place, they cannot properly implement them or recognize potential hazards in their work environment. This lack of knowledge creates gaps in safety practices, leading to increased risks of accidents or injuries on the job.

Moreover, safety protocols are designed to protect workers and create a safer work environment, but their success heavily relies on the employees' understanding and adherence to these rules. If employees do not know what procedures to follow or the importance of those procedures, the overall effectiveness of the safety program diminishes significantly. Thus, the level of awareness among employees is critical to the successful implementation of any safety protocols.