Applying the BeSafe method to product safety evaluation.

The BeSafe (Behavioural Safety) Method, has been developed by International Mining Consultants Ltd for assessing and reducing risk in industrial contexts. BeSafe is an ergonomic method of risk analysis and reduction, targeted at prevention of accidents due to human errors and violations, and emphasising management strategies for action. In a consumer product environment, accidents are often due to similar human errors and violations. However, the product usage environment tends to be diffuse and variable, and its management difficult. Many controlling measures used to prevent accidents in industry do not apply in this environment. Using the BeSafe Method, it may be possible to structure safety assessments of the use of products and target improvement measures. The authors tested the relevant parts of the method on children's play equipment in playgrounds, and useful results were obtained. BeSafe could be adapted for other consumer products in a similar way.