G7- Accident Causation Flashcards
A study of factors and sequences leading to accidents
Accident Causation
Helps in understanding and preventing construction site incidents
Accident Causation
Essential for creating safe work environments
Accident Causation
What are the theories of accident causation?
- Domino Theory
- Multiple Causation Theory
- Human Factors Theory
- Systems Theory
- Energy Transfer Theory
- Accident-Incident Causation Theory
Proposed by Helbert William Heinrich in 1931
and states that Accidents as a chain reaction
Domino Theory
Sequence of Domino Theory
- Social environment
- Fault of person
- Unsafe act/condition
- Accident
- Injury
Accidents result from multiple factors, not a single cause
Multiple Causation Theory
The factors in multiply causation theory are:
unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, poor training policies or procedures, and inadequate supervision
Focuses on human error as the main cause of accidents
Human Factors Theory
Factors in Human Factors Theory are:
skill deficiencies, violations of rules or procedures, poor decision-making, and lack of situational awareness
Accidents from complex interactions (worker, tasks, tools, environment)
Systems Theory
The five subsystems in systems theory are:
Technical
Environmental
Individual
Organizational
Social
Views accidents as uncontrolled energy transfer (mechanical, electrical, etc.)
and emphasizes the importance of identifying dangerous situations and implementing safety measures to prevent accidents from occurring
Energy Transfer Theory
Expands on human factors and overload concepts
and states that the cause of an accident/incident are human error and/or system failure
Accident-Incident Causation Theory
Importance of understanding accident causation and its application:
- Identifying Patterns
- Developing Safety Practices
- Implementing Proactive Measures
- Influencing Government Policies
By looking at past accidents and close calls, project teams can spot potential dangers early and this lets them take steps to prevent problems before they can happen.
Proactive Risk Identification
Some Casual factors that require proactive risk identification:
- Human Factors
- Environmental Factors
- Job-related Factors
- Management Factors
- Improved Safety Culture
- Targeted Interventions
- Cost Saving
During _____________________, accident causation analysis might reveal factors like poor weather or equipment failure as key risks. In response, project teams might adjust the construction schedule to avoid peak weather seasons, reinforce scaffolding, and implement additional safety checks on heavy lifting machinery.
bridge construction
In ________________________, accident causation analysis can prevent falls and collapses by implementing secure scaffolding, harness use, and proper load distribution. Understanding these factors helps in setting up robust fall-prevention systems, improving both worker safety and structural stability.
High-rise construction
will not happen by itself, but there are triggers for it to happen.
Accident
Most of the accidents that occur are caused by
Unsafe behavior and/or unsafe conditions
refers to actions by individuals that violate established safety procedures and guidelines. This could be intentional or unintentional, but it typically involves disregarding safety rules
Unsafe behavior
A condition in which the layout of the workplace or the physical location of the work, the state of the apparatus, equipment and/or materials have been in violation of safety standards.
Unsafe Conditions
What are the factors that contribute to accidents?
- Human Element
- Job Site Condition
- Unique Nature of the Industry
- Unsafe Equipment
- Unsafe Methods
- Environmental Factors
- Management
Refers to human related causes of accidents, including errors, lack of training and poor judgement
Human Element
Refers to the physical state of the job itself, particularly if the site is disorganized or poorly maintained
Job Site Condition
The construction industry is inherently high-risk due to the nature of its projects, which involve heavy machinery, complex operations, and unpredictable movements
Unique Nature of the Industry
Accidents can occur due to equipment that is outdated, faulty, improperly maintained, or used incorrectly
Unsafe Equipment
Work practices that do not follow safety guidelines
Unsafe Methods
Environmental conditions, such as weather and natural hazards
Environmental Factors
Poor management practices, including lack of planning, inadequate supervision and failure to enforce safety policies
Management
Real-world example of accidents in Civil Engineering Projects:
- Falls from Height
- Struck by Object
- Electrocution
- Fire and Explosions
- Fall from Scaffolding
Case studies from Specific Projects:
- The Tacoma Narrows Bridge
- A Poorly Designed tower in London
Twisted back and forth in strong winds before collapsing in 1940
The Tacoma Narrows Bridge
Reflected and magnified sunlight until it was melting cars and frying eggs
A Poorly Designed Tower in London
Economic impact of accidents on companies and workers includes:
- Cost
- Profitability
- Worker and Well-Being
- Company Reputation
Accident’s Impact on Safety Regulations and Laws are:
- Identifying Trends
- Improving Safety Protocols
- Enhancing Safety and Health of Employees
Construction projects can be complex and unsafe for the environment, affecting sustainable development.
Environmental Impact
Accidents can lead to a loss of customers’ confidence, tarnishing of image, and loss of public confidence in the contractors
Social Impacts
The _________________________are paramount in civil engineering. The code mandates engineers to prioritize public safety and welfare in all their professional decisions. This principle is the cornerstone of the profession, reflecting the profound responsibility civil engineers bear towards society
Safety and Welfare of the Public
The code emphasizes the importance of competence and continuous learning. Civil engineers are expected to practice in their competence areas and keep their knowledge up to-date.
Competence and Knowledge
Civil engineers are expected to take responsibility for their actions and decisions. This principle promotes integrity and professionalism, reinforcing society’s trust in civil engineers.
Professional Accountability
If violations of safety codes or regulations are found, firms can face fines, penalties, or orders to cease work until issues are corrected.
Regulatory Investigations and Fines
Engineers may be ordered to pay significant amounts in damages through settlements or court judgments. This can include compensatory and punitive damages. The financial impact can be substantial, especially in cases involving severe accidents.
Financial Penalties
In extreme cases where an engineer’s actions involve gross negligence or willful misconduct that leads to serious harm or fatalities, _______________ could be filed.
criminal charges
