Examples of evidence-based approaches in accident prevention

The term "evidence" is most widely used in legal and scientific contexts in the sense of information that would tend to establish a fact. In the medical field, what is known as "evidence-based medicine" seeks to optimize health care. The evidence-based practices used in medicine are now being applied in other fields, including occupational safety and health (OSH). But what does evidence-based safety in OSH really mean and how can it be achieved? A number of projects in Germany have been implemented on the evidence-based model and have reduced accident levels, e.g. The use of safety devices has reduced needlestick injuries in the health professions. A preventive training programme has reduced occupational injuries in the metal and glass industry. These examples show that the evidence-based prevention approach covers everything from best practice in companies up to scientific expert reviews. Further activities are being developed in other countries. By using all the available scientific knowledge and practical experience in OSH, evidence-based practices cannot only successfully prevent occupational accidents, but also improve working conditions and boost productivity. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.