Five principles for preventing accidents

1. The Principle of Proactive Prevention

Industrial accidents are human-made disasters, unlike natural disasters, which can often be predicted or mitigated. However, human errors and unsafe conditions can be prevented through proper planning and awareness. The focus should not only be on responding after an accident but also on implementing preventive measures before it occurs. Safety engineering emphasizes prevention, and safety management is built on the belief that accidents are avoidable. While some reports may mention "unavoidable" causes, these typically refer to natural events. Human-caused accidents can be entirely prevented with the right strategies and actions.

2. The Principle of Accidental Loss

Workplace accidents involve two main aspects: the occurrence of an incident and the resulting loss. Losses can be physical, such as injuries, disabilities, or even death, or they can be material, including damage to equipment, production losses, and financial compensation. Not all accidents result in significant harm; some may occur without any measurable impact. However, the severity of the loss is often unpredictable and varies with each incident. Therefore, preventing accidents is the most effective way to avoid large-scale losses.

3. The Principle of Secondary Causes

Every accident has a direct cause, but behind that lies a chain of indirect and underlying causes. These secondary causes can include poor management practices, flawed policies, or lack of training. Understanding this causal chain is crucial for effective accident prevention. By tracing back from the immediate cause to the deeper, systemic issues, organizations can address the root problems and reduce the likelihood of future incidents. Managing energy sources and controlling hazards are essential parts of this process.

4. The Principle of Choosing Appropriate Countermeasures

When analyzing the causes of accidents, three main categories often emerge: technical, educational, and managerial. For each, appropriate countermeasures can be applied. These include technical solutions, education and training, and legal regulations—often referred to as the "3 E" approach. The effectiveness of these measures depends on how quickly and accurately they are implemented. Focusing on both direct and underlying causes ensures a more comprehensive approach to accident prevention.

5. The Principle of Risk Factor Protection

This principle focuses on protecting workers from hazardous factors in the workplace. It includes eliminating dangerous elements through advanced technology, reducing the intensity of risks when elimination is not possible, and using distance, time, and shielding to minimize exposure. For example, increasing safety distances from radiation or noise, limiting exposure time to harmful substances, and using barriers to protect workers are all effective strategies. These methods contribute to a safer and more controlled working environment.

China Labor Insurance Network