ABSTRACT
Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCMs) method is applied in research as well as in business and non-profit practice to model fragments of reality composed of logic constructs. The method allows for description and analysis of the interrelated objects constituting these fragments, especially when both objects and interrelations are immeasurable or difficult to be characterized with the use of numbers. FCMs are created on the basis of knowledge of people with practical expertise of the modelled objects. Verbal descriptions of experts are converted into numbers according to the defuzzification procedure. This allows for mathematical simulations to be carried out and forecasting changes in the model. In this chapter, FCMs are recommended as a tool for modelling and improving OSH management systems. The proposed methodology assumes presenting an OSH management system as a set of interrelated processes and factors exerting negative and positive impact over these processes and over safety and health performance. Practical information is provided on how to elaborate such a model and conclude on possible OSH management system improvement options. An exemplary model is presented in a graphic form. Furthermore, the methodology for transforming the graphical model into a mathematical notation that allows for calculation-based simulations is explained.
