Risk perception with and without workers present in hazard recognition images

Abstract

Effective training is a critical component in improving mineworkers’ ability to identify and assess hazards and ultimately reduce accidents and injuries. Previous research has identified the importance of context and cultural relevance as significant factors in the effectiveness of training. Research from adult education, social marketing, and public health education also suggest that the inclusion of a personal connection to training may improve communication. However, there is limited empirical knowledge about the effects of training content composition. Specifically, it is unclear how the inclusion of workers in training materials may affect how mineworkers’ perceive a hazard. The goal of this paper is to examine if the presence of workers in the context of hazards affects how mineworkers’ assess the risks. Researchers collected risk assessments from participants in the laboratory and during mandatory, annual refresher training. The results have implications for training material development and workplace examination timing.