What does research tell us about the effects of SHE information systems

3 What does research tell us about the effects of SHE information systems  

Researchers have studied whether the qualities of the various subsystems of a SHE information system affect the accident risk. Two different research methods have been applied. In so-called ex-post facto studies, scientists explore whether there are differences in the SHE information systems between companies with high and low accident rates. They have found that companies with low accident rates have better injury record-keeping systems (Simonds and Shafai-Sahrai, 1977), better formal routines for workplace inspections (Smith et al., 1978), and are more inclined to inquire into minor injuries and near accidents (Cohen et al., 1975). 

In action research, scientists participate in the introduction of changes in the SHE information system of a company. They evaluate how these changes affect the behaviour of its organisation and the company s accident rates. Many studies report reductions in accident rates following the introduction of such measures as improved accident investigation and workplace inspection routines and introduction of near-accident reporting (Adams et al., 1981 Menckel, 1990 Komaki et al., 1978). 

In evaluation research, scientists study effects of programme changes made inside companies, without being involved in the changes themselves. An aluminium plant had introduced a documented SHE information system, involving improved routines for accident and near-accident reporting, workplace inspections and follow-up of SHE results. An evaluation study showed that the introduction of internal control, in combination with other measures such as improved maintenance, contributed to an improved control of production. This resulted not only in substantially reduced losses from accidents but also in reduced overall operational expenditures (Kjellen et al., 1997). 

Such results help us in arguing about the importance of well-functioning SHE information systems. They also give some hints about important quaHties of such a system. 

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