From OSH regulation to safety results: Using behavioral insights and a "supply chain" approach to improve outcomes – The experience of the health and safety Executive. (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blanc, Florentin; Ottimofiore, Giuseppa; Myers, Kevin
• Is Part Of: Safety science. Volume 145(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: Industrial accidents -- Periodicals; Accident Prevention -- Periodicals; Safety -- Periodicals; Travail -- Accidents -- Périodiques; 363.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ssci.2021.105491
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0925-7535

Abstract

Highlights: HSE uses a behavioral approach to achieve risk management by economic operators. Engaging operators through "upstream" tools appears to generate positive results. A "behavior-focused" approach may be more appropriate to achieve regulatory goals. Abstract: This paper considers briefly theoretical foundations of the links between regulation, "regulatory delivery" and compliance, and then a case study of construction safety regulation in Britain, and comparative data on occupational safety inspections and outcomes in Britain, Germany and France (European Union member states with generally comparable OSH regulations but very different regulatory delivery). It studies the use of behavioral approaches by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in Great Britain, where engagement with regulated entities, managers, workers and other stakeholders to improve OSH is central. It provides a brief analysis of how approaches to regulatory delivery based on behavioral insights can result in greater efficiency, increased compliance and more positive public outcomes. These approaches differ from a traditional "deterrence-based" conception of regulatory enforcement limited to finding and punishing violations. Evidence suggests that such behavior-focused regulatory delivery can be both more efficient and more effective.