A Sociotechnical Systems Approach Applying a Novel Taxonomy to a Survey for the Assessment of Safety Performance

Abstract

The aim of this chapter was to explore a sociotechnical systems approach applying a novel taxonomy with respect to safety performance. The study applied a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Workers (n = 120) and managers (n = 85) were asked to complete a questionnaire survey (Appendix). The following hypotheses were supported: “Activities of the management” had positive impacts on five aggregated variables, namely “near-accident investigation and instructions” (H1), “occupational safety and health (OSH) training” (H2), “operations, technical processes, and the safe use of chemicals” (H3), “use of personal protective equipment” (H4), and “measuring, follow-up, and prevention of major accidents” (H5). By undertaking a statistical evaluation and then devising a novel taxonomy, it was possible to gain detailed insights into diverse aspects of a high-risk industry's work with regard to complex sociotechnical systems. When applying the current approach through participatory cooperation, organizations may acquire new perspectives on their safety performance.