What about Using Photovoice for Health and Safety?

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Public Health
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• The photovoice method, introduced in 1997, is widely adopted across various fields like public health and social development.
• Its application has expanded, necessitating a structured overview of its current designs and uses, particularly within the health and safety domain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of current photovoice designs and applications in the health and safety sector.
• To develop a classification system for photovoice by identifying generic designs and objectives.
• To explore the potential of photovoice in safety management.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was employed to examine existing literature on photovoice.
• Analysis focused on identifying process steps, objectives, and application examples within the health and safety domain.
• Photovoice designs were categorized based on their underlying objectives.

Main Results:

• Photovoice designs are constructed from combinations of eleven distinct process steps.
• Five generic objectives underpin the diverse applications of photovoice: communication, education, exploration, awareness, and empowerment.
• Numerous safety-related applications demonstrate the method's relevance in safety management.

Conclusions:

• The proposed five generic photovoice designs offer a framework for a classification system.
• These generic designs can simplify the implementation and utilization of photovoice as a research tool.
• Photovoice shows significant potential for application in health and safety management, although further theoretical development and guidance are recommended.