Preventing Industrial Accidents: Reappraising H. W. Heinrich - More than Triangles and Dominoes

Herbert William Heinrich was a safety pioneer whose work from the 1930s/1940s affects much of what is done in safety today. This book aims to fill the gap by defining the main themes in Heinrich's work and discussing them, paying attention to their origins, developments, interpretations, and attributions. It also reflects on Heinrich's relevance for today's safety science and practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Herbert William Heinrich, a prominent figure in the field of safety, has left an indelible mark on the industry. His contributions from the 1930s and 1940s continue to shape safety practices today, albeit with both positive and negative consequences. While some individuals have critically examined Heinrich's work, others passionately defend it. Interestingly, many who discuss his ideas have only heard about them through secondhand sources, personal opinions, or mere speculation, without having thoroughly studied his writings or delved into their historical context.

One significant reason for this lack of engagement with Heinrich's work is its scarcity. For decades, his writings have been out of print, making it challenging to access his original sources and obtain comprehensive biographical information. This scarcity has contributed to a superficial understanding of his ideas and their origins.

To address this gap, this book aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of Heinrich's life and work. Drawing upon extensive research and access to his original papers, books, and biographical materials, it sheds light on the context in which he operated, the influences that shaped his thinking, and the lasting impact he has had on safety science and practice.

The book defines the central themes that permeate Heinrich's work and delves into their historical origins, developments, interpretations, and critiques. It examines well-known concepts and metaphors such as the accident triangle, the accident sequence (dominoes), the hidden cost of accidents, the human element, and management responsibility. By examining these ideas from various perspectives, the book offers a fresh and nuanced understanding of Heinrich's contributions.

What sets this book apart is its holistic approach to examining Heinrich's legacy. It is the first to comprehensively address his work and legacy as a whole, drawing upon a wealth of material and approaching the matter from multiple angles. The book explores not only Heinrich's scientific contributions but also his personal experiences, ethical considerations, and the broader societal implications of his ideas.

Furthermore, the book reflects on Heinrich's relevance for contemporary safety science and practice. It considers how his insights and ideas continue to inform safety management strategies, risk assessment methodologies, and human factors research. It raises important questions about the ongoing challenges faced by safety professionals and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in an ever-evolving field.

In conclusion, Herbert William Heinrich has been a pivotal figure in the history of safety, and his work continues to shape our understanding of risk management and human behavior. This book aims to provide a deeper appreciation of his contributions by offering a comprehensive exploration of his life, work, and legacy. By examining his ideas from various perspectives and considering their relevance for today's safety science and practice, it seeks to inspire further research and dialogue in the field.

Weight: 464g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367704568