Citation

Singleton WT. J. Occup. Accid. 1982; 4(2-4): 91-102.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1982, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Technological progress does not lead to an increase in accidents, the accidents which do occur may be more spectacular but the accident rate per unit of product usually falls. In many working situations accidents follow a learning-type curve. The flat portion of these curves has coincided with extensive increases in safety legislation and the associated cost, at present there is no evidence that this increased investment was justified.Another contributing explanation to the apparent stability in occupational accident rates is that the risk-levels may now be acceptable. A further decrease in occupational hazards may well be accompanied by increases in accidents in leisure activities as individuals indulge in risk-taking at play rather than at work.The standard national safety procedure now followed by all developed countries is described and some suggestions for safety strategies with potential further development are made. These include the concepts of forgiving systems, awareness of limits and risk acceptability.