A cross-validation of a structural equation model of accidents: organizational and psychological variables as predictors of work safety

A study to establish a structural equation model of accidents is presented. The eight variables included in the model were those associated with accid ents in previous research. The reliability of questionnaires to measure tho se variables and a structural equation model relating them are provided. Th e model explaining the occurrence of accidents was cross-validated through three Spanish samples (n = 123; 182; 124). The model presented a good fit t o data in two samples, while a third had unclear fit indices. Therefore, mo st relationships among variables did not vary among these three samples. Th e role of the safety variables in the model is discussed. The discussion is also focused on risk measurement difficulties commonly reported in the lit erature. Finally, some suggestions for future safety research with structur al equation modelling techniques are provided.