Which theory suggests that most industrial accidents are caused by unsafe acts?

The theory that suggests most industrial accidents are caused by unsafe acts is the Behavior-Based theory. This approach focuses on the idea that the behaviors of individuals within the workplace play a crucial role in safety outcomes. It posits that when workers engage in unsafe behaviors—whether due to lack of training, complacency, or misunderstanding of safe practices—accidents are more likely to occur.

Behavior-Based theory emphasizes the need to understand and modify these unsafe acts through observation, feedback, and training to promote a culture of safety. By identifying high-risk behaviors and encouraging safer practices, organizations can reduce the incidence of accidents. This perspective is crucial in safety management as it allows for targeted interventions aimed at modifying individual actions to create a safer working environment.

In contrast, other theories like Cost-Benefit analysis focus on weighing the costs of safety measures against their benefits, while Human Factors theory looks at broader cognitive and ergonomic aspects affecting safety. Safety Management Systems theory encompasses overarching frameworks for managing safety programs but does not specifically attribute accidents to individual behaviors. Each of these alternative theories contributes valuable insights to safety practices but does not narrow in on the direct connection between unsafe acts and industrial accidents as the Behavior-Based theory does.