Safety

14 pages, 1974 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Identification of the Competency Components Necessary for the Tasks of Workers’ Representatives in the Field of OSH to Support Their Selection and Development, as Well as to Assess Their Effectiveness

by Peter Leisztner, Ferenc Farago and Gyula Szabo

Safety 2025, 11(3), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030073 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025

Abstract

The European Union Council’s zero vision aims to eliminate workplace fatalities, while Industry 4.0 presents new challenges for occupational safety. Despite HR professionals assessing managers’ and employees’ competencies, no system currently exists to evaluate the competencies of workers’ representatives in occupational safety and [...] Read more.

The European Union Council’s zero vision aims to eliminate workplace fatalities, while Industry 4.0 presents new challenges for occupational safety. Despite HR professionals assessing managers’ and employees’ competencies, no system currently exists to evaluate the competencies of workers’ representatives in occupational safety and health (OSH). It is crucial to establish the necessary competencies for these representatives to avoid their selection based on personal bias, ambition, or coercion. The main objective of the study is to identify the competencies and their components required for workers’ representatives in the field of occupational safety and health by following the steps of the DACUM method with the assistance of OSH professionals. First, tasks were identified through semi-structured interviews conducted with eight occupational safety experts. In the second step, a focus group consisting of 34 OSH professionals (2 invited guests and 32 volunteers) determined the competencies and their components necessary to perform those tasks. Finally, the results were validated through an online questionnaire sent to the 32 volunteer participants of the focus group, from which 11 responses (34%) were received. The research categorized the competencies into the following three groups: core competencies (occupational safety and professional knowledge) and distinguishing competencies (personal attributes). Within occupational safety knowledge, 10 components were defined; for professional expertise, 7 components; and for personal attributes, 16 components. Based on the results, it was confirmed that all participants of the tripartite system have an important role in the training and development of workers’ representatives in the field of occupational safety and health. The results indicate that although OSH representation is not yet a priority in Hungary, there is a willingness to collaborate with competent, well-prepared representatives. The study emphasizes the importance of clearly defining and assessing the required competencies. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 794 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Safety Professional Job Descriptions Using Integrated Multi-Criteria Analysis

by Mohamed Zytoon and Mohammed Alamoudi

Safety 2025, 11(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030072 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Poorly designed safety job descriptions may have a negative impact on occupational safety and health (OSH) performance. Firstly, they limit the chances of hiring highly qualified safety professionals who are vital to the success of OSH management systems in organizations. Secondly, the [...] Read more.

Introduction: Poorly designed safety job descriptions may have a negative impact on occupational safety and health (OSH) performance. Firstly, they limit the chances of hiring highly qualified safety professionals who are vital to the success of OSH management systems in organizations. Secondly, the relationship between the presence of qualified safety professionals and the safety culture (and performance) in an organization is reciprocal. Thirdly, the low quality of job descriptions limits exploring the proper competencies needed by safety professionals before they are hired. The safety professional is thus uncertain of what level of education or training and which skills they should attain. Objectives: The main goal of the study is to integrate the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) with importance–performance analysis (IPA) to evaluate job descriptions in multiple sectors. Results: The results of the study indicate that it is vital to clearly define job levels, the overall mission, key responsibilities, time-consuming tasks, required education/certifications, and necessary personal abilities in safety job descriptions. This clarity enhances recruitment, fairness, performance management, and succession planning. The organization can then attract and retain top talent, improve performance, foster a strong safety culture, create realistic job expectations, increase employee satisfaction and productivity, and ensure that competent individuals are hired, ultimately leading to a safer and more productive workplace. Conclusion: The outcomes of this study provide a robust framework that can and should be used as a guideline to professionalize job description development and enhance talent acquisition strategies. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship Between Visual Acuity, Colour Vision, Contrast Sensitivity and Stereopsis, and Road Traffic Accidents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Diana García-Lozada, Fanny Rivera-Pinzón and Edgar Ibáñez-Pinilla

Safety 2025, 11(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030071 - 28 Jul 2025

Viewed by 190

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between visual functions and road traffic accidents (RTAs) by meta-analysis of observational studies. The analysis included all drivers of motor vehicles, regardless of age, and those using private or public transport. Self-reported visual [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between visual functions and road traffic accidents (RTAs) by meta-analysis of observational studies. The analysis included all drivers of motor vehicles, regardless of age, and those using private or public transport. Self-reported visual outcomes were excluded. The risk of RTA in patients with reduced visual acuity was observed in commercial drivers in cross-sectional studies (PR 1.54, 95% CI 1.26–1.88), but not in private drivers in cohort (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.74–1.46) or case–control studies (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.78–1.40). A non-statistically significant association between colour vision defects and RTA was observed in cross-sectional studies (PR 1.50, 95% CI 0.91–2.45). No evidence was found for an increased risk of accidents in people with reduced stereopsis. In older adults with abnormal contrast sensitivity, a weak risk of RTA was observed in cohort studies. Evidence from low-quality cross-sectional studies suggests an increased risk of RTAs among commercial drivers with reduced visual acuity. The few case–control and cohort studies identified did not show an association between accident occurrence and visual function. Attention needs to be paid to this issue to facilitate the conduct of high-quality research that can support the development of road safety policies. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 479 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mitigating the Health Impairment Vicious Cycle of Air Traffic Controllers Using Intra-Functional Flexibility: A Mediation-Moderated Model

by Bader Alaydi, Siew-Imm Ng and Xin-jean Lim

Safety 2025, 11(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030070 - 23 Jul 2025

Viewed by 187

Abstract

Air traffic controllers (ATCOs) make a significant contribution to ensuring flight safety, making this profession a highly stressful job globally. Job demands–resources (JDR) theory proposes a health impairment process stemming from job demand (complexity) to mental workload, which causes job stress, resulting in [...] Read more.

Air traffic controllers (ATCOs) make a significant contribution to ensuring flight safety, making this profession a highly stressful job globally. Job demands–resources (JDR) theory proposes a health impairment process stemming from job demand (complexity) to mental workload, which causes job stress, resulting in compromised flight safety. This vicious cycle is evident among ATCOs and is recognized as an unsustainable management practice. To curb this process, we propose intra-functional flexibility as a conditional factor. Intra-functional flexibility refers to the flexibility in the reallocation and coordination of resources among team members to help in urgent times. This is a relatively new concept and is yet to be empirically tested in the ATCO context. ATCOs work in a dynamic environment filled with sudden surges of urgent jobs to be handled within short time limits. Intra-functional flexibility allows standby crews to be called to ease these tensions when needed. To ascertain the role of intra-functional flexibility in mitigating health impairment among ATCOs, a questionnaire was administered to 324 ATCOs distributed across Saudi Arabia. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis exhibited two critical findings: First, the study revealed the prevalence of a vicious cycle of health impairment among Saudi ATCOs, whereby job complexity leads to increased mental workload, resulting in elevated levels of job stress. Secondly, the presence of intra-functional flexibility weakened this vicious cycle by mitigating the influence exerted by mental workload on job stress. That is, the mediation-moderated model proposed in this study provides empirical evidence supporting the applicability of intra-functional flexibility in mitigating the dire suffering of ATCOs. This study discusses limitations and future research directions in the end. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1014 KiB

Open AccessReview

Pharmaceutical Packaging Materials and Medication Safety: A Mini-Review

by Yaokang Lv, Nianyu Liu, Chao Chen, Zhiwei Cai and Jianhang Li

Safety 2025, 11(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030069 - 18 Jul 2025

Viewed by 284

Abstract

Pharmaceutical packaging materials play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of medications. This mini-review examines the properties of common packaging materials (glass, plastics, metals, and rubber) and their implications for drug safety. By analyzing 127 research articles from PubMed, Web [...] Read more.

Pharmaceutical packaging materials play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of medications. This mini-review examines the properties of common packaging materials (glass, plastics, metals, and rubber) and their implications for drug safety. By analyzing 127 research articles from PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI databases (2000–2025), we also discuss recent regulatory updates in China and highlight emerging technologies, including nanomaterials, sustainable packaging solutions, and intelligent packaging systems that present new opportunities for the pharmaceutical industry. Key findings include the following: (1) The physicochemical properties of packaging materials and potential microbial contamination risks during production significantly impact drug quality and safety, underscoring the need for enhanced research and regulatory oversight. (2) Each material exhibits distinct advantages and limitations: glass demonstrates superior chemical stability but may leach ions; plastics offer versatility but risk plasticizer migration; metals provide exceptional strength yet have limited applications; rubber ensures effective sealing but may release additives compromising drug quality. (3) The pharmaceutical packaging sector is evolving toward intelligent systems and sustainable solutions to address contemporary healthcare challenges. This review can aid pharmaceutical companies in selecting drug packaging and guide manufacturers in developing innovative packaging solutions. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

60 pages, 9590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dealing with High-Risk Police Activities and Enhancing Safety and Resilience: Qualitative Insights into Austrian Police Operations from a Risk and Group Dynamic Perspective

by Renate Renner, Vladimir M. Cvetković and Nicola Lieftenegger

Safety 2025, 11(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030068 - 18 Jul 2025

Viewed by 617

Abstract

Special police units like Austria’s EKO Cobra are uniquely trained to manage high-risk operations, including terrorism, amok situations, and hostage crises. This study explores how group dynamics contribute to operational safety and resilience, emphasising the interconnection between risk perception, training, and operational practices. [...] Read more.

Special police units like Austria’s EKO Cobra are uniquely trained to manage high-risk operations, including terrorism, amok situations, and hostage crises. This study explores how group dynamics contribute to operational safety and resilience, emphasising the interconnection between risk perception, training, and operational practices. Interviews with current and former EKO Cobra members reveal key risk factors, including overconfidence, insufficient training, inadequate equipment, and the challenges of high-stakes scenarios. Using a structured yet thematically flexible interview analysis approach, the study adopts group dynamics theory as its framework and applies a semi-inductive, semi-deductive qualitative methodology. It examines risk categorisation in ad hoc operations, as well as the interplay between risk perception and training, proposing actionable strategies to enhance safety and preparedness through tailored training programmes. The findings underscore the transformative impact of intensive scenario-based and high-stress training, which enhances situational awareness and reinforces team-based responses through cohesion and effective communication. Group dynamics, including cohesion and effective communication, play a pivotal role in mitigating risks and ensuring operational success. Importantly, this research advocates for continuous, adaptive, and specialised training to address evolving challenges. By linking theoretical frameworks with practical and actionable insights, this study proposes a holistic training approach that promotes both resilience and long-term sustainability in police operations. These findings offer valuable guidance to elite units like EKO Cobra for broader policy frameworks by providing insights that make police operations safer and more effective and resilient. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multilevel Spatial Framework for E-Scooter Collision Risk Assessment in Urban Texas

by Nassim Sohaee, Arian Azadjoo Tabari and Rod Sardari

Safety 2025, 11(3), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030067 - 17 Jul 2025

Viewed by 255

Abstract

As shared micromobility grows quickly in metropolitan settings, e-scooter safety issues have become more urgent. This paper uses a Bayesian hierarchical model applied to census block groups in several Texas metropolitan areas to construct a spatial risk assessment methodology for e-scooter crashes. Based [...] Read more.

As shared micromobility grows quickly in metropolitan settings, e-scooter safety issues have become more urgent. This paper uses a Bayesian hierarchical model applied to census block groups in several Texas metropolitan areas to construct a spatial risk assessment methodology for e-scooter crashes. Based on crash statistics from 2018 to 2024, we develop a severity-weighted crash risk index and combine it with variables related to land use, transportation, demographics, economics, and other factors. The model comprises a geographically structured random effect based on a Conditional Autoregressive (CAR) model, which accounts for residual spatial clustering after capture. It also includes fixed effects for covariates such as car ownership and nightlife density, as well as regional random intercepts to account for city-level heterogeneity. Markov Chain Monte Carlo is used for model fitting; evaluation reveals robust spatial calibration and predictive ability. The following key predictors are statistically significant: a higher share of working-age residents shows a positive association with crash frequency (incidence rate ratio (IRR): ≈1.55 per +10% population aged 18–64), as does a greater proportion of car-free households (IRR ≈ 1.20). In the built environment, entertainment-related employment density is strongly linked to elevated risk (IRR ≈ 1.37), and high intersection density similarly increases crash risk (IRR ≈ 1.32). In contrast, higher residential housing density has a protective effect (IRR ≈ 0.78), correlating with fewer crashes. Additionally, a sensitivity study reveals that the risk index is responsive to policy scenarios, including reducing car ownership or increasing employment density, and is sensitive to varying crash intensity weights. Results show notable collision hotspots near entertainment venues and central areas, as well as increased baseline risk in car-oriented urban environments. The results provide practical information for targeted initiatives to lower e-scooter collision risk and safety planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic Risk Assessment: Control and Prevention of Collisions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 17269 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From FRAM Guidelines to Reality: Incorporating Stakeholder Variability in Work-as-Done in Healthcare

by Nienke M. Luijcks, Perla J. Marang-van de Mheen, Maarten J. van der Laan and Jop Groeneweg

Safety 2025, 11(3), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030066 - 11 Jul 2025

Viewed by 293

Abstract

Background: The Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) analyses discrepancies between written protocols (Work-as-Imagined) and real-world practice (Work-as-Done) in healthcare. Work-as-Done is created based on multiple stakeholders, leading to variability in reported functions. No guidance exists how to manage this variability. This study examines [...] Read more.

Background: The Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) analyses discrepancies between written protocols (Work-as-Imagined) and real-world practice (Work-as-Done) in healthcare. Work-as-Done is created based on multiple stakeholders, leading to variability in reported functions. No guidance exists how to manage this variability. This study examines between-stakeholder variation in Work-as-Done and its impact on differences from Work-as-Imagined in FRAM visualisations. Methods: Two FRAM studies were analysed: delirium diagnosis and treatment (1) and perioperative anticoagulant management in two hospitals (2). Heatmaps visualised between-stakeholder variability of reported functions in Work-as-Done. We assessed the impact of including only functions shared by multiple stakeholders on Work-as-Imagined versus Work-as-Done comparisons. Results: In study 1, 23 of 33 functions were shared among at least two stakeholders. In study 2, stakeholders shared 30 of 33 functions in Hospital 1 and 29 of 32 functions in Hospital 2. Including or excluding functions, e.g., only mentioned by one stakeholder, influenced the observed differences between Work-as-Imagined and Work-as-Done. Conclusions: Between-stakeholder variability in both studies influenced differences between Work-as-Imagined and Work-as-Done, which often is the starting point improving the process. Showing between-stakeholder variability in FRAM studies enhances transparency in researcher decision-making. This supports more informed analysis and discussion in process improvement efforts. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Violence in the Workplace Towards Pharmacists Working in Different Settings in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Faten Alhomoud, Deemah Altalhah, Maram Al jabir, Teef Alshammari, Khalid A. Alamer, Farah Kais Alhomoud, Mohammed M. Alsultan, Yousef Saeed Alqarni, Bashayer Alshehail and Fahad Alsulami

Safety 2025, 11(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030065 - 8 Jul 2025

Viewed by 304

Abstract

Workplace violence (WPV) is a prevailing global concern among healthcare providers (HCPs). Pharmacists may be more vulnerable to WPV than other HCPs due to being the most trusted, approachable, and accessible healthcare workers. However, in Saudi Arabia, there is little research on violence [...] Read more.

Workplace violence (WPV) is a prevailing global concern among healthcare providers (HCPs). Pharmacists may be more vulnerable to WPV than other HCPs due to being the most trusted, approachable, and accessible healthcare workers. However, in Saudi Arabia, there is little research on violence in the workplace among pharmacists working in different sectors. This is a cross-sectional survey study. An online survey was adopted from previous studies and distributed to a convenience sample of pharmacists by email and social media using a link to a web-based survey platform in QuestionPro. SPSS 28 was used for analysis. Logistic regression was employed to assess the association between WPV exposure and the participants’ characteristics. Three hundred and nineteen pharmacists participated in the study. A total of 156 (48.9%) reported exposure to workplace violence. Most participants had experienced verbal abuse (39.7%). Most offenders were male (84.6%), and aged 21–45 years (66.7%). Common causes included lack of a penalty (13.3%), and absence of reporting systems (11.4%). Seventy-eight percent of participants reported that the violence affected them negatively, leading to hopelessness (19.7%), and decreased work performance and productivity (15.1%). Logistic regression indicated that working as a staff (OR: 3.165; 95% CI 1.118–8.96, p = 0.030), working evening or night shift (OR: 2.4456; 95% CI 1.340–4.503, p = 0.004), and lacking procedure for reporting the violence (OR: 0.412; 95% CI 0.236–0.717, p = 0.002) were more likely to be victim of workplace violence than their counterparts. In Saudi Arabia, the risk of WPV events occurrence among pharmacists is high. The findings can guide the creation of appropriate policies, actions, and safety procedures to prevent and address WPV against pharmacists. Full article

43 pages, 2678 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Designing a Short Disaster Risk Reduction Course for Primary Schools: An Experimental Intervention and Comprehensive Evaluation in Hue City, Vietnam

by Ngoc Chau Mai and Takaaki Kato

Safety 2025, 11(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030064 - 3 Jul 2025

Viewed by 317

Abstract

Disaster risk reduction (DRR) education is considered increasingly necessary, particularly for children. DRR educational interventions aim to enhance knowledge and attitudes related to self-protective capacity. However, comparative studies on students in areas prone to different disasters and comprehensive criteria covering both knowledge and [...] Read more.

Disaster risk reduction (DRR) education is considered increasingly necessary, particularly for children. DRR educational interventions aim to enhance knowledge and attitudes related to self-protective capacity. However, comparative studies on students in areas prone to different disasters and comprehensive criteria covering both knowledge and attitudes toward behavior remain limited. A short DRR course was developed for primary schools across three regions (mountainous, low-lying, and coastal) in Hue City, one of Vietnam’s most vulnerable areas to extreme weather events. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate student performance by applying Bloom’s taxonomy and treatment-control pre-post-follow-up design with panel analysis methods. From December 2022 to September 2023, three surveys, involving 517 students each, were conducted in six schools (three schools received the course and surveys, while the other three only participated in surveys). The intervention revealed similarities and differences between the groups. The course positively impacted on some elements of knowledge and preparedness intentions in students from low-lying and mountainous regions (including ethnic minorities). Higher-grade students in the mountainous region showed improvement in intentions, but not in attitudes toward self-protection. No gender differences in intentions were found. Although limited overall improvements, the study’s various methods, approaches and continuous assessment can be applied globally to design, implement, and assess DRR education courses effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Navigating the Complexity of Natural Hazards and Disasters: Research, Preparedness and Mitigation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1798 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Simulation Sickness in Virtual Reality Pedestrian Scenarios: Effects of Gender, Exposure, and User Perceptions

by Tarek Abu Selo, Zahid Hussain, Qinaat Hussain, Wael Alhajyaseen, Shimaa Al-Quradaghi and Mohammed Yousef Alqaradawi

Safety 2025, 11(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030063 - 2 Jul 2025

Viewed by 289

Abstract

Simulation sickness (SS) remains a challenge in virtual reality (VR) applications, especially in pedestrian safety research. This study investigates SS symptoms in VR environments, focusing on gender differences, exposure time, and user perceptions. A total of 145 participants were exposed to two VR [...] Read more.

Simulation sickness (SS) remains a challenge in virtual reality (VR) applications, especially in pedestrian safety research. This study investigates SS symptoms in VR environments, focusing on gender differences, exposure time, and user perceptions. A total of 145 participants were exposed to two VR pedestrian scenarios: a crosswalk and a sidewalk. The Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) was used to assess symptoms of nausea, oculomotor disturbance, and disorientation. Results showed that female participants reported significantly higher SS symptoms than males, with the sidewalk scenario inducing greater overall SS. Additionally, perceived realism in the VR environment was associated with reduced symptoms, while perceived disengagement led to increased discomfort. These findings highlight the importance of user perceptions in mitigating SS and suggest that VR scenarios should be designed with attention to gender differences and environmental realism to improve user experience and safety. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 650 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Nature of Ergonomic Hazards Among Construction Workers in India: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Syed Mohammad Fauzan Akhtar, Neha Mumtaz and Abdur Raheem Khan

Safety 2025, 11(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030062 - 20 Jun 2025

Viewed by 540

Abstract

(1) Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a major occupational health concern in the construction industry owing to the physically demanding tasks and poor ergonomic conditions present. Limited data exist on the prevalence of WMSDs and their ergonomic determinants among construction workers in [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a major occupational health concern in the construction industry owing to the physically demanding tasks and poor ergonomic conditions present. Limited data exist on the prevalence of WMSDs and their ergonomic determinants among construction workers in India. This study investigated the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and the associated ergonomic risk factors among construction workers in India. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 construction workers in India. Data on musculoskeletal disorders were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and ergonomic risk was assessed using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) tool. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with WMSDs, and Spearman’s correlation was used to assess the relationship between the REBA scores and the number of affected body regions. (3) Results: The prevalence of WMSDs was 60.4%. The most affected regions were the lower back (48%), knees (45%), shoulders (40%), and the neck (30%). The REBA scores indicated that 60% of the workers were at high or very high ergonomic risk and 30% at medium risk. Workers in the high/very high-risk category had significantly higher odds of developing WMSDs (OR = 4.5, 95% CI: 1.8–11.2, p = 0.001). Age above 40 years was also significantly associated with WMSDs (OR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.2–10.2, p = 0.02). (4) Conclusions: This study demonstrated a high prevalence of WMSDs among Indian construction workers and established a clear association with poor ergonomic conditions. Targeted ergonomic interventions, including posture improvement, tool redesign, and safety training, are essential for reducing the risk of WMSDs in this population. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Safety, Volume 11, Issue 3 (September 2025) – 12 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI