Greg, I can't fault your healthy skepticism. While figures don't lie ... liars can figure! Alas, I no longer have the source documentation to present to all here.
The trends were dramatic, and the timing -coincident with the creation of OSHA, and their equipment-oriented approach- was unmistakable. Simply put, the return to the 'old way' resulted in an immediate return to 'old accident rates.' Times change, technology changes ... but human nature is the same today as it was in the time of the Prophets.
Speculation about the statistics used in the trends is also cut short by the confirming results brought about by management or attitude changes. For example, some industries are very seasonal ... and those industries have their accident rates skyrocket as the 'busy' season comes to an end. One might consider linking the accident rates to things like fatigue - and folks being concerned over whether they will be laid off THIS week. I'm not talking about 'sprained back' or 'carpal tunnel' here ... I'm talking about the loss of body parts!
These are the very real, injury-producing factors that will never be addressed by either equipment specifications or certification requirements. These are what need to be addressed for a REAL reduction in accidents.
In another thread here, a member is asking how to do something on equipment he has not been trained on. I'll give him credit for asking .... but, if he gets hurt, it will be 'caused' by a company that failed to train him, provide him with the necessary equipment, etc. Oddly enough, it is the companies that hold their management to account that have trained, equipped, safe employees. Companies where management is allowed to say 'not my fault' have more people get hurt. It can be that simple.
