The concept of degraded images applied to hazard recognition training in mining for reduction of lost-time injuries.
BACKGROUND
This paper discusses the application of a training intervention that uses degraded images for improving the hazard recognition skills of miners.


METHODS
NIOSH researchers, in an extensive literature review, identified fundamental psychological principles on perception that may be employed to enhance the ability of miners to recognize and respond to hazards in their dangerous work environment. Three studies were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the degraded image training intervention. A model of hazard recognition was developed to guide the study.


RESULTS
In the first study, miners from Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Alabama, who were taught with the aid of degraded images, scored significantly better on follow-up hazard recognition performance measures than those trained using traditional instructional methodologies. The second and third studies investigated the effectiveness of the training intervention at two mining companies. Data collected over a 3-year period showed that lost-time injuries at mines in Alabama and Illinois declined soon after the training intervention was instituted.


CONCLUSIONS
Further exploration of the hazard recognition model and the development of other interventions based on the model could support the validity of the steps in the hazard recognition model.
Kowalski-Trakofler
Kathleen M
KM
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Pittsburgh Research Laboratory, 626 Cochrans Mill Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA. kkowalski@cdc.gov
Barrett
Edward A
EA
D000062:Accidents, Occupational / Q000401:mortality / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001296:Audiovisual Aids; D004616:Emblems and Insignia; D015386:Hazardous Substances; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000379:methods*; D008906:Mining / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D016272:Occupational Health; D015996:Survival Rate; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D014792:Visual Acuity; D017132:Workplace / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*
D015386:Hazardous Substances