ABSTRACT

In this paper, we review recent research output in an attempt to identify trends in the evolution of safety science and its relationship with developments in operations management and strategy. The synchronized co-evolution of the two disciplines is very important for operations and safety management alike, since investment in safety is an investment in the productivity of a company’s human capital and the operations production. The review revealed that, currently, safety, as a recognized and distinct science, is increasing its scope and becomes heavily dependent on changes in the trends of technology and organizations management. Similarly, by building a safety capability, companies can increase and sustain their operations performance.