Strategies for Improving Hazard Recognition, Version 1.1

Traditional hazard recognition can be broadly classified as either being predictive or reactive in nature. Predictive methods such as Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) focus on visualizing future construction activities to identify hazards that may be encountered. Reactive or retrospective methods rely on past experiences to determine potential hazards. Both classes of hazard recognition methods have serious shortcomings that hinder thorough hazard recognition. (RS293-1, p. 5)

To facilitate retention of new information, motivate workers to actively participate in the hazard recognition process, and improve worker hazard recognition skills, the research had to incorporate theories from psychology and other behavioral sciences. RT-293 leveraged the categorical organization mnemonics method, which, research indicates, is particularly effective with adult learners. The categories of mnemonics selected were the hazardous energy sources suggested by Fleming (2008) in which all safety hazards are linked to the potential release of specific energy types. An “energy disc” was developed to aid in the instruction and use of these mnemonics. (RS293-1, p. 11)  

The System for Augmented Virtuality Environment Safety (SAVES) is a game-based instructional method that immerses trainees in a hyper-realistic, three-dimensional environment for effective hazard recognition training. SAVES was created by stitching together construction scenarios from real projects in the United States and a BIM model of a real project using a gaming engine. (RS293-1, p. 17) Testing in an oil-and-gas processing facility and fluff pulp processing plant showed consistent and statistically significant improvements in hazard recognition in crews receiving SAVES training. 

This tool promotes continuous improvement of safety meeting practices to enhance hazard recognition. The tool is organized in three sections: Plan, Do, Assess & Adjust; and incorporates best practices that can be adopted through an iterative process. Testing on a modular construction project and power plant project showed statistically significant improvements in hazard recognition by crews using the SMQM process and tools. (RS 293-1, p. 13).  

This "Board" promotes real time detection and communication of hazards. The board facilitates the pre-task safety planning process, during which workers review the energy sources to identify hazards that they may encounter while performing work tasks. Unlike other strategies, the HIT Board also permits workers to identify and communicate additional hazards, before exposure and in real time, as the work progress. Testing in a food manufacturing facility (maintenance and projects) and a detergent manufacturing facility (maintenance and renovation) showed statistically significant gains in hazard recognition during both the pre-task planning and work execution. (RS293-1, p. 15)