Behavioural economics applied to health and safety

The HSE has published a report authored by University of Liverpool and MBS on behavioural economics.

This is very welcome; the view of 'human error' in the safety community has been very limited, and this research may bring about a wider view of error. There is quite a sizeable collection of literature.

Surprising omissions include James Montier and Michael Mauboussin. Being academics, they do not seem to have a good handle on the range of decisions that affect safety (workplace = overalls + people not as bright as us), and the recommendations are the inevitable ones for more research rather than application.

Despite these limitations, it is an extremely welcome publication.