Constructs of leading indicators: A synthesis of safety literature

This paper systematically reviewed pertinent literature on leading indicators – discussing definitions, types, and development methods.

Not a summary, but it’s open access.

In image 1, they explore definitions, examples, functions, what, how, advantages and disadvantages of both leading and lagging based on the literature review.

They also identify different typologies of leading indicators, including: passive or active; structural or operational; SMS indicators or indicators of abstract safety constructs; leading monitor indicators or leading drive indicators; tier 3 or tier 4 indicators (looking at severity); and predictive proactive indicators or monitoring proactive indicators.

The time course of indicators are also explored, for instance how passive leading indicators typically take a long time to measure, nor altered in a short period of time. Hence, passive leading indicators “are a manifestation of decisions, actions, or events that have taken place long before the operation or project has been initiated (i.e., the design stage)” (p4).

In contrast, active leading indicators can readily change throughout a project and hence, can be timely corrected once observed. These are more dynamic.

It’s open access, so you can read the paper for yourself.

Authors: Bayramova, A., Edwards, D. J., Roberts, C., & Rillie, I. (2023). Constructs of leading indicators: A synthesis of safety literature. Journal of Safety Research.

Study link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsr.2023.04.015

Link to the LinkedIn post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/benhutchinson2_this-paper-systematically-reviewed-pertinent-activity-7062907862112485376-IE1g?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop