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Summary
The introduction of the Accident Compensation Act led to a 150% rise in lost-time work accidents, primarily due to benefit rate changes. Effective safety programs can significantly reduce accident rates.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Workplace Accident Analysis
- Industrial Hygiene
Background:
- The study examines lost-time work accidents in a paper-manufacturing plant.
- Accident statistics were analyzed before and after the implementation of the Accident Compensation Act on April 1, 1974.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the trends in lost-time work accidents.
- To determine the impact of the Accident Compensation Act on accident reporting.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of safety programs in reducing accidents.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of company records on lost-time work accidents.
- Comparison of accident statistics from 1973 to 1977.
- Correlation of accident trends with workforce changes and legislative implementation.
Main Results:
- A 150% increase in reported lost-time work accidents occurred between 1973 and 1977.
- Workforce increased by only 24% during the same period.
- Changes in benefit rates under the Accident Compensation Act are identified as a primary driver for increased reporting.
Conclusions:
- The Accident Compensation Act significantly influenced the reporting of lost-time work accidents.
- Management commitment to safety programs is crucial for reducing accident frequency.
- The firm's average accident frequency rate from 1961 to 1982 was 5.71 per 100,000 man-hours.