Discuss the causes of workplace accidents based on the Human Factors Theory and its consequences. Recommend ways to reduce workplace accidents in the selected organisation.

Question

1. Clear introduction of all of the following:

·     Name of the organisation

·     Products and services

·     Type of industry

·     Number of employees

2. Able to discuss four (4) causes of workplace accidents based on the Human Factors Theory and supported with relevant examples.

3. Able to discuss four (4) consequences of workplace accidents and supported with relevant examples.

4. Four (4) feasible recommendations were given and supported with clear justification.

Answer 1

Causes of Workplace Accidents (Human Factors Theory)

The Human Factors Theory argues that accidents occur because of a chain of events triggered by human error, which is rarely intentional but rather caused by: 

1. Overload: This occurs when a worker is overtaxed by environmental factors (noise, heat), internal factors (personal problems, fatigue), or situational factors (high-speed, complex tasks).
2. Incompatibility: Poor interaction between the worker and the tools, machines, or environment (e.g., poor ergonomics, unclear labels, improper machine layout).