Theory and practice of solution strategies for unsafe acts based on accident causation models: A systematic review

Abstract

The resolution to unsafe acts, a typical human factor issue, is essential for preventing industrial accidents. Accident causation models can provide an analysis of the concept of unsafe acts, establishing a theoretical framework for identifying and intervening in unsafe acts. This systematic review focuses on analyzing their defining characteristic attributes and intervention strategies. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology was adopted in this study, 62 relevant papers from Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest were analyzed. Research trends in the topic were summarized, including annual publication volume, literature sources, the application of accident causation models and analytical techniques. 4 defining attributes of unsafe acts were extracted, including violations, errors, accident-causing, and risk. 2 categories of act performers were identified: front-line workers or personnel at all levels. Furthermore, 14 types of solution strategies for unsafe acts, which also function as accident prevention strategies, were specified. Key strategies include safety supervision, safety education and training, safety culture, etc. Finally, this study proposes a 4-level application stage for identifying unsafe acts and integrates 14 strategies to construct a systematic solution framework, forming a comprehensive safety management system that provides theoretical support and practical guidance for future safety practices.