Chapter 3
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Iowa State University *
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370
Subject
Health Science
Date
Apr 3, 2024
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docx
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Uploaded by CommodoreClover6276
Answer any 10
of the following questions:
1.
Explain the domino theory of accident causation, including its origin and its impact on more modern theories.
a.
Conceptual model that emerged in the field of occupational safety to explain the sequence of events leading to accidents. Heinrich's Domino Theory can be traced back to the work of Herbert William Heinrich, an American industrial safety pioneer, in the early 20th century. Heinrich's ideas were first presented in
his 1931 book, "Industrial Accident Prevention: A Scientific Approach." Heinrich proposed a linear cause-and-effect relationship, arguing that accidents are the result of a sequence of events leading from a basic cause to the final accident. While Heinrich's Domino Theory contributed to the early understanding
of accident causation, more modern theories have evolved to incorporate a more complex and systemic approach.
2.
What were the findings of Herbert W. Heinrich’s 1920s study of the causes of industrial accidents?
a.
Heinrich's study was groundbreaking in its time and influenced safety management practices, his findings have faced criticism over the years. Some of his discoveries were: The Pyramid Ratio, 88:10:2 Ratio, Chain of Events, Unsafe Acts and Conditions, and Human Factors.
3.
List five of Heinrich’s axioms of industrial safety.
a.
Injury Triangle, accident ratio, safety as a management function, frequency-severity relationship, and human element in safety.
4.
Explain the following concepts in the domino theory: preceding factor and central factor.
a.
A preceding factor in the Domino Theory refers to an event or condition that occurs before the accident and sets the stage for the subsequent factors to unfold. The central factor is the pivotal
element in the sequence of events, identified as the primary cause or failure that directly leads to the accident.
5.
What are the three broad factors that lead to human error in the human factors theory? Briefly explain each.
a.
The person factor refers to individual characteristics, capabilities,
and limitations that can influence human performance. These include factors such as cognitive abilities, physical fitness, skills, knowledge, attention levels, motivation, and stress tolerance. The task factor involves the characteristics of the job or activity that individuals are engaged in. Complex or poorly designed tasks, inadequate training, unclear instructions, and lack of
feedback can contribute to human errors. The environment factor encompasses the physical, social, and organizational context in which the task is performed. Environmental conditions, such as lighting, noise, temperature, and ergonomic factors, can affect human performance. 6.
Explain the systems failure component of the accident/incident theory.
a.
The systems failure component encourages a shift from a blame-
oriented approach to a more comprehensive understanding of accidents. By examining the systemic context and addressing underlying issues, organizations can implement proactive measures to enhance safety and prevent future incidents.
7.
What are the key components of the epidemiological theory? How does
their interaction affect accident causation?
a.
The interaction between these components in accident causation
can be illustrated through the concept of the "Haddon Matrix," which breaks down the factors into pre-event, event, and post-
event phases. Understanding how these elements interact allows
for the development of comprehensive strategies to prevent accidents. The epidemiological theory provides a systematic framework for analyzing and addressing accident causation by considering the complex interactions between various components.
8.
Explain the systems theory of accident causation.
a.
The systems theory of accident causation has been influential in shaping modern safety management approaches. It emphasizes the need to look beyond individual errors and focus on the organizational and systemic factors that contribute to accidents.
9.
What impact do stressors have in the systems theory?
a.
Stressors are integrated into the systems theory as factors that can influence both the human elements and the overall functioning of the system. Managing stressors is an essential aspect of maintaining a safe and resilient system, as it helps mitigate the risk of accidents and contributes to the overall well-
being and performance of individuals within the organization.
10.
List five factors to consider before making workplace decisions that involve risk.
a.
Risk assessment, regulatory compliance, stakeholder involvement, cost-benefit analysis, and contingency planning.
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