With increasingly complex systems proliferating in the workplace, the proportion of accidents involving 'human error' is growing. According to the Health & Safety Executive, some estimates attribute up to 80% of accidents to this cause alone.
In response, the HSE has published new guidance designed to get control over these issues and cut accident rates. 'Reducing Error and Influencing Behaviour' is aimed at all managers with H&S responsibilities, not just specialists.
Deputy Director General David Eves says: "The message is that consideration of human factors is a key ingredient of effective health and safety management. In the past, this area may have seemed too complex or too difficult to do anything about, but this guidance provides practical help on many of the important issues."
The HSE flags four main areas where the human dimension must be considered:
More information about 'Reducing Error and Influencing Behaviour'is available on the HSE's InfoLine: 0541-545500.
Elliott Chase
