Comparison of common methods for accident data classification: case study in a Canadian utility company

J. Tsao, K. Woodcock, 2007. Association of Canadian Ergonomists. [CD-ROM] 6 pgs.

Accident data are commonly used to review company safety performance and plan countermeasures. The perceived safety performance and problem areas are influenced by the method of extracting, collecting, and summarizing data obtained in the accidents. A Canadian utility company was reviewing options for new or additional methods of accident data recording. The methods were compared qualitatively using historical data from the company. Each accident report was broken down into single fact data points and recorded as factors without assuming any information not stated. This analysis suggested that the classic Haddon matrix is worth further consideration.

Author: Kathryn Woodcock

Dr. Kathryn Woodcock is Professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, teaching, researching, and consulting in the area of human factors engineering / ergonomics particularly applied to amusement rides and attractions (https://thrilllab.blog.ryerson.ca), and to broader occupational and public safety issues of performance, error, investigation and inspection, and to disability and accessibility.