Good question.

When BF Skinner used to train his pigeons, he’d initially reinforce any tiny movement that at least went in the right direction. For the exact reasons you mentioned.

For example, instead of waiting for the pigeon to peck the lever directly (which it might not do for many hours), he’d give reinforcement if the pigeon so much as turned its head towards the lever. Over time, he’d raise the bar. Until, eventually, only clear lever pecks would receive reinforcement.

I don’t know if they’re doing something like that here. But it would be smart.