Human factors in a more global environment

摘要

Globalization of the manufacturing industries has had many effects,many of which may impact safety performance.International expansion of domestic firms often requires additional work for the corporate safety arm of the company,who often need to implement unfamiliar international regulations.Some facilities are shutdown or sold to international firms.The corporate culture in these international companies,wit regard to safety,is different than at typcial U.S. companies.Those facilities that remain operational as part of a U.S. company often receive reduced corporate financial support,resulting in lower employee morale.Shutdown facilities results in more operating personnel available to work at fewere faciities,increasing the supply of operating personnel.Other safety effects peripherally affected by the new global environment include the increased presence of consolidation / downsizing,toll operations,outsourcing,and just-in-time inventory management.