Only Human? - Insights into safe behaviour in the workplace

This interactive workshop examines the cognitive and response processes behind safe behaviour in the workplace. It focuses on developing the understanding needed to identify and manage the factors behind the often-unpredictable workplace behaviours identified in accident causation studies.

The workshop is structured around a practical sequential cognitive model, examining the hypothesized stages in the decision-making and response process of individuals in a hazardous situation.

The model starts by exploring the individual's perception and cognition of the hazard - without a clear understanding here, there can be no positive safe behaviour. This is followed by the critical personal motivation stage. These stages are followed by the decision-making stage, and finally, if an individual decides to take action to minimise / reduce the risks of an accident, they still need the ability to do this.

We will examine the following:

• The impact of stress, fatigue, wellness, alcohol and drug abuse on these processes.
• Understanding risk and risk-taking behaviour.
• Culture, motivation, attitudes, emotional intelligence and incentives in safe behaviour.
• Understanding the difference between error and violation – implementing a “just culture”
• Using incentive programs to promote safe behaviour.