How does uncertainty affect workplace accidents? Exploring the role of information sharing in manufacturing networks

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the influence of uncertainty on workplace accidents at the plant level. Furthermore, this study explores such relation in complex settings (i.e. manufacturing networks) and assesses whether or not information sharing in such environments can reduce the potentially negative impact of uncertainty on accidents.

Design/methodology/approach

To assess the relationships between uncertainty, accidents and information sharing the authors utilise cross-country survey data collected through the sixth iteration of the International Manufacturing Strategy Survey. The authors conceptualise workplace accidents through production time lost due to accidents. Furthermore, the authors conduct multiple regression analyses to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results suggest that procurement, production, and demand uncertainties do indeed lead to an increase in workplace accidents at the plant level. Furthermore, the negative impact of uncertainty can be significantly reduced through information sharing.

Originality/value

This study represents a comprehensive attempt to simultaneously assess the impact of uncertainty on workplace accidents at the plant level and the possible moderating impact of information sharing.

Citation

Wiengarten, F. and Longoni, A. (2018), "How does uncertainty affect workplace accidents? Exploring the role of information sharing in manufacturing networks", International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 38 No. 1, pp. 295-310. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOPM-07-2015-0431