Five principles for preventing accidents

1. The Principle of Proactive Prevention

Industrial accidents are human-made disasters, unlike natural disasters, which cannot be prevented. Therefore, it is essential to focus on preventive measures rather than just responding after an incident occurs. Safety engineering emphasizes prevention as its core principle, and safety management should prioritize proactive strategies. While some accident reports may cite "unavoidable" causes, these usually refer to natural events. Human-made accidents can be completely avoided through effective countermeasures. By identifying and addressing potential risks before they lead to incidents, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents occurring in the first place.

2. The Principle of Accidental Loss

Work-related accidents involve both the occurrence of an event and the resulting loss. These losses can be physical, such as injuries or death, or material, like damage to equipment or production losses. Accidents can also cause psychological stress or long-term health issues. There are three main types of personal accidents: those caused by unsafe human actions (e.g., tripping, falling), those caused by object movements (e.g., being hit by objects), and those due to contact with hazardous substances or environments (e.g., electric shocks, radiation exposure). The severity of the loss from an accident is often random, and even repeated incidents may not always result in the same level of harm. Therefore, preventing accidents is the most effective way to avoid large-scale losses.

3. The Principle of Secondary Causes

Accidents are directly linked to their causes, but the relationship between the cause and the loss is often indirect. The immediate cause of an accident is called the proximate cause, while the root causes—such as poor management, inadequate policies, or lack of training—are referred to as secondary or basic causes. Addressing these deeper causes is crucial for long-term accident prevention. This involves tracing the chain of causes from the direct to the fundamental and implementing controls at all levels. Managing energy sources and strengthening safety protocols are essential steps in reducing the risk of secondary accidents.

4. The Principle of Choosing Appropriate Countermeasures

When analyzing the causes of accidents, three main factors are typically identified: technical, educational, and managerial. For each of these, specific countermeasures can be applied. These include engineering solutions, education and training, and legal regulations—often referred to as the "3 E measures." These three pillars are considered the most effective in preventing accidents. The most impactful approach is to address the underlying and indirect causes through thorough analysis and timely implementation of corrective actions, which reduces the probability of future incidents.

5. The Risk Factor Protection Principle

This principle focuses on eliminating or reducing dangerous elements in the workplace. When possible, high technology can be used to eliminate harmful factors entirely, ensuring maximum system reliability and worker protection. If elimination is not feasible, the next step is to reduce the level of risk, such as by improving personal protective equipment or minimizing exposure to toxins. Another method is distance protection, where the physical separation between workers and hazards helps reduce harm. For example, increasing safety distances during blasting or radiation exposure can prevent serious injuries. Time protection is another strategy, limiting the duration of exposure to hazardous conditions. Shielding, such as using barriers or protective materials, is also an effective way to isolate workers from dangers. These methods collectively enhance safety and minimize the impact of potential risks.

China Labor Insurance Network