From Safety to Safety Science: The Evolution of Thinking and Practice

This book provides an overview of 150 years of knowledge development in the safety sciences, highlighting how contemporary crises have driven the development of safety knowledge. It is divided into clear time periods and includes appendices and references to support further scholarly work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 406 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Accidents and disasters are complex phenomena that can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from human error to natural disasters. Understanding the causes and mechanisms of accidents is crucial for preventing and mitigating their impact. Over the past century, significant progress has been made in improving safety across different industries, including aviation, road traffic, and industry. This improvement has been gradual, reflecting the changing nature of society and the need for continuous adaptation.

One of the key factors contributing to the improvement in safety is a better understanding of the accident processes that lead to damage. Researchers have studied accidents in depth to identify the underlying causes and develop strategies to prevent them. This understanding has been facilitated by advances in technology, such as accident reconstruction and simulation, which allow for more accurate analysis of accident scenarios.

Another important aspect of safety knowledge development is the integration of different disciplines and fields. Safety researchers have drawn ideas from various fields, such as psychology, engineering, and economics, to develop more comprehensive safety theories and practices. This interdisciplinary approach has led to the development of safety models and tools that can be applied across different industries and contexts.

The book "From Safety to Safety Science: 150 Years of Knowledge Development in the Safety Sciences" provides a comprehensive overview of the development of safety knowledge over the past century. The authors have carefully selected and analyzed over 2,500 articles to extract the essence of safety knowledge development. The book is divided into clear time periods, making it an accessible piece of science history for both new and experienced safety researchers, safety courses and education, and learned practitioners.

One of the key strengths of the book is its extensive appendices and references, which provide additional support for further scholarly work in the field. The appendices include a timeline of significant safety events, a glossary of safety terms, and a bibliography of relevant literature. The references section includes a comprehensive list of books, articles, and other resources that can be used to deepen one's understanding of safety knowledge development.

In conclusion, accidents and disasters are complex phenomena that can have devastating consequences. However, significant progress has been made in improving safety over the past century through a better understanding of accident processes, the integration of different disciplines, and the development of comprehensive safety theories and practices. The book "From Safety to Safety Science: 150 Years of Knowledge Development in the Safety Sciences" provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in safety research, education, and practice. By drawing on the wealth of knowledge and experience in the safety sciences, the book offers insights into the past, present, and future of safety and provides a roadmap for building safer and more resilient communities.

Weight: 646g
Dimension: 233 x 157 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367550240