Analysis of the Factors Affecting the Safety Performance in the Iranian Power Distribution Companies - Hybrid Approach of DEMATEL and ISM

Abstract

Background and aims: Workplace safety and protecting human and other resources is an important concern in the industry. Workplace accidents leads to damages to employees and affects business operations for a variety of reasons, including absenteeism, loss of productivity, and increased production costs. One of the most dangerous industries in the world is the electric power industry, and electric power has been identified as the fifth factor in terms of work accidents. The purpose of this study is to identify and classify the factors affecting the safety in power distribution companies and to determine the relationship between them. Methods: Based on previous studies, 14 indicators affecting safety were identified in three dimensions: organizational, technical and human. Using the questionnaire, the rational relationship between the indicators is quantified and then, by combining DEMATEL and ISM, the influencing degree, influenced degree, centrality and causality between the indicators were calculated. In order to systematically analyze the relationship between the indicators, a hierarchical model was drawn using the ISM method; and based on the power of influence and dependence of indicators, the MICMAC diagram was drawn. According to the resultant model, the relationship between indicators were systematically analyzed. Results: The top management commitment and safety standards as well as rules and regulations indicators, have the most power to influence other indicators and have a causal role; the risk identification and control, contractor and supplier management, incident analysis, safety audit, personal protective equipment, control and supervision, health and first aid, emergency response, safety training, communication, understanding the needs and expectations of the employees and other stakeholders, and developing a safety culture are the effective indicators. Conclusion: This paper, in addition to introducing the theoretical basis for safety influencing indicators in power distribution companies and investigating their relationships, has proposed practical suggestions to prevent accidents and improve safety in the power distribution companies.