Studies of personality and risk perception applied to occupational risks during use of ionizing radiation sources

Abstract

Although the evolution of the theory on occupational safety shows a trend towards the responsibility of the organization in this matter, there is no doubt about the importance of the individual human factor in the confrontation of dangers. Personality tests can help to know how each individual will face activities with possible associated risk. It is possible to integrate personality studies with risk perception studies. The objective of this work is to present a methodology that combines computerized personality test methods with the capabilities of a risk perception evaluation system that allows integrating aspects that are transcendental in the identification of weak points in individual safety, which are taxable to the design of training plans that promote safe attitudes towards occupational hazards. A key sector of occupational hazards is that of activities that use sources of ionizing radiation, including gammagraphy and radiological medicine practices. As an example of the application of the developed methodology, an individual study carried out on an industrial gammagraphy worker. The result shows that the worker risk perception and personality denote a marked propensity for accidents.