Deaths and Injuries at US Steel: Blame the Workers? By Jordan Barab, Confined Space
Like many employers, US Steel is buying into the classic 'blame the worker' theory and relying on 'behavioral safety' as the solution. Behavioral safety theories say that worker carelessness or misconduct is the cause of most accidents, and discipling workers is the answer. But behavioral theories don't hold up to a closer look at the cause of most workplace accidents
Ultimately, of course, most accidents are caused by someone doing something 'wrong.' That's generally known as the 'direct cause.' And, of course, if that's where your analysis of the accident stops, the obvious answer is to find out who made the mistake and fire his ass. Problem solved. Right?
Wrong.