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ARTICLE · 17 JULY 2015

To Err Is Human: Human Error And Workplace Safety

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A worker installing a robot at a Volkswagen production plant in Germany was killed last week when it grabbed him and crushed him against a metal plate.

United KingdomEmployment and HR
Anne Davies
Anne Davies
Christopher Adams
Christopher Adams
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A worker installing a robot at a Volkswagen ('VW') production plant in Germany was killed last week when it grabbed him and crushed him against a metal plate. According to a VW spokesman, initial conclusions indicate human error was to blame.

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Even in the absence of further details, attributing the accident solely to human error may prevent constructive action to improve safety. Human error is a frequently deployed explanation: around 90% of industrial accident reports indicate a failure on the part of the injured person or a co-worker. Such explanations are convenient and all-encompassing: blaming individuals who directly cause accidents suggests that such accidents are unavoidable, absolves management of any responsibility, and leads to simple recommendations that the individuals be disciplined, sacked, retrained, or told to be more careful.

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