Behavioural Safety and Human Factors in High-Risk Industries

Abstract

In high-risk industries such as nuclear power, oil and gas, mining, aviation, and construction, behavioural safety and human factors are central to risk management and accident prevention. While technological safeguards are critical, human behaviour, decision-making, and organisational dynamics play an equally vital role in ensuring workplace safety. Behavioural safety emphasizes cultivating a strong safety culture, reducing human error, and systematically observing, analysing, and correcting unsafe practices. In parallel, the study of human factors examines the interactions between people, technology, and organisational systems, addressing issues such as fatigue, stress, ergonomics, training, and communication. Taken together, these approaches provide a comprehensive framework for improving operational safety by recognising that accidents often arise from a combination of human error, organisational weaknesses, and equipment failure. Applying human factor principles ensures systems are designed to support optimal human performance under demanding conditions, while behavioural safety programs, leadership initiatives, and employee engagement foster accountability and vigilance. Integrating these two perspectives is crucial for achieving sustainable safety performance, reducing accidents, and protecting both workers and communities in today’s increasingly complex, technology-driven industries.