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feedback loops are missing, experiential knowledge
and confidence are lost in unplanned situations. As
a result, employees may lose sight of the implica-
tions of their own actions.
•
Access to information “anywhere, anytime and in
any detail” can make work easier. The timing and
volume of information output is determined by what
is technically possible. However, the ability of hu-
mans to process this information remains limited.
Furthermore, the use of modern communication
technology is often associated with increased expec-
tations of efficiency (e.g. faster response times to
customer queries), which leads to the intensification
of work.
•
The human-machine interface can be made safer
and more ergonomic through the use of new tech-
nologies. However, this is only possible if human
requirements such as attention and sensory percep-
tion are factored into product development and the
design of work systems. It is no longer enough to
only consider technical aspects and error tolerance
as part of the human-machine interface.
Consequences for prevention
More than ever, workplace prevention must look at the
work system as a whole (people, organisation, technolo-
gy). Risk assessments and OSH measures cannot be lim-
ited to certain “critical control points”. During the plan-
New Forms of Prevention
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