Unveiling the Complex Interplay of Individual Factors Influenc-ing Unsafe Behaviors in Industrial Workplace: A Systematic Review

Azim  Karimi; Esmaeil  Zarei; Ehsanollah  Habibi; Fatemeh  Aminiaei

doi:10.18502/ijph.v54i11.20385

Azim Karimi Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, Faculty of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
Esmaeil Zarei Department of Safety Science, College of Aviation, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott, AZ, 86301, USA
Ehsanollah Habibi Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, Faculty of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
Fatemeh Aminiaei Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, Isfahan Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfa-han, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijph.v54i11.20385

Keywords: Behavioral safety; Safety policymaking; Risk perception; Occupational safety; Human reliability

Abstract

Background: This systematic review aimed to clarify the individual factors that contribute to unsafe behaviors in industrial workplaces.

Methods: An initial search across PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus yielded 2,348 articles published between 2000 and 2023. After a rigorous screening process using the PRISMA guideline, 51 studies meeting the inclusion criteria—focusing on individual determinants of unsafe behaviors in industrial environments were selected for in-depth analysis.

Results: The systematic analysis revealed a multifaceted relationship between individual factors and the occurrence of unsafe behaviors. Key themes include the influence of demographic attributes, psychological needs and desires, cognitive factors, and health conditions. The dual-focused approach of addressing both organizational and individual dimensions emerged as crucial for effective safety management. The synthesis of evidence underscores the significance of individual factors in shaping workplace safety. While organizational strategies remain integral, our findings emphasize the complementary role of individual-focused initiatives. A notable gap in the absence of a comprehensive tool for examining all individual factors points toward a crucial avenue for future research.

Conclusion: This review contributes essential insights for organizational leaders, safety managers, and policymakers seeking to enhance safety protocols and create safe and resilient work environments.