Accidents are Preventable: A Deep Dive into Occupational Safety

Key Takeaways:

1. Despite seeming improvements, some accident rates have risen.
2. Specific industries, such as waste and recycling, face unique challenges.
3. The majority of traffic collisions stem from driver decision-making errors.
4. Addressing the root causes requires industry-specific data and strategies.
5. “Availability bias” can skew leaders’ perspectives on effective solutions.

Introduction: The Illusion of Safety in Numbers

Accidents, by nature, are unexpected. However, the adage “accidents are preventable” carries more truth than one might realize. Especially in industries like waste and recycling, understanding the real causes and identifying preventative measures is crucial.

1. The Deceptive Nature of Accident Rates

While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showed an uptick in fatality rates for refuse and recyclable material collectors in 2015, the National Safety Council highlighted a 6% rise in highway fatalities for 2016. This unsettling trend emerges even after efforts to reduce collisions. But why?

2. Underlying Causes of Traffic Collisions

A staggering 94% of traffic collisions relate to driver decision errors. The main culprits include the non-use of seat belts, driving under the influence, and excessive speeding. The rising addiction to electronic devices, particularly smartphones, plays a significant role in these statistics.

3. The Trap of Availability Bias

Daniel Kahneman’s concept of “availability bias” is especially pertinent here. Waste and recycling industry leaders, influenced by readily available but not entirely relevant data, may implement changes based on these biases. Using collision data pertinent to specific vehicles and driver environments is key to sustainable accident prevention.

4. Addressing “Preventable” Collisions Head-On

In 2016, a webinar titled “Reducing Collisions – Going Beyond Distracted Driving” provided invaluable insights. Delving into Lytx’s collision videos from 2011-2016, it was identified that a majority of waste industry collisions were preventable. The common thread? Poor driver decisions.

Though 94% of collisions might seem preventable as per NHTSA’s data, in reality, 71% of them were, as per NWRA and Lytx’s research. The distinction lies in the specifics of each industry and understanding its nuances.

5. The Severity of Preventable Collisions

Collisions might have decreased in frequency, but their severity has escalated. Notably:

• Fixed objects and backing collisions represented 40% of low-severity but high-frequency incidents.
• Rear-end collisions, due to the vehicle’s sheer size and weight, were often severe and accounted for over 20% of preventable collisions.

6. Unraveling the Causes of Preventable Collisions

The webinar shed light on varied distractions impacting preventability:

• Cellphone usage, while a factor in only 6% of preventable collisions, played a part in about 24% of distraction-caused collisions.
• Work-related distractions or driver inattentiveness, including daydreaming or eating, contributed to 70% of preventable collisions.

7. Tackling Distracted Driving in the Waste and Recycling Industry

For waste and recycling collectors, demanding schedules and varied working conditions intensify the risk. Around 8% of severe collisions are attributed to fatigue or drowsiness.

Top-tier companies address these risks by improving administrative controls, enhancing route planning, focusing on nutrition, and adjusting shift schedules. Other methods include managing fatigue and promoting hydration and heat illness prevention.

8. The Power of Contextual Data

NWRA members have the privilege of accessing a dedicated safety team. With tailored data diagnostics, companies can chart out clear roadmaps for problem-solving and refining processes, ensuring that accidents remain preventable.

Conclusion: Steering Towards a Safer Future

The belief that “accidents are preventable” isn’t just a mantra—it’s a commitment. By understanding the industry-specific challenges and proactively addressing them, we can ensure a safer environment for all. Remember, every accident prevented is a life potentially saved.