The Application of Systemic Analysis on Complex and Multi-layered Shipbuilding yard in Korea

Korean industry has achieved dramatic growth in a short time through continuous technical innovations. However, safety consciousness and management have not kept pace with industry growth. The characteristics of industrial accidents in socio-technical systems have become so complicated that it has been challenging for safety professionals to implement effective preventive measures because it is difficult to determine what is happening in the complex workplace. Thus far, they have focused on technical improvements and the requirements of OSH regulations to avoid legal responsibility. Accordingly, this study has used the systemic analysis method to explain the emergence of something unexpected in complex and multi-layered business structures, which is usually related to the variabilities of humans and organizations. This study chose a shipyard where a few fatal accidents had occurred because the shipbuilding industry includes numerous variabilities, including obtaining orders, manpower supply, procurement, etc. Systemic analysis progressed using FRAM based on two accident cases related to the truss platform used in LNG vessels. The outcome shows that each function within the system has its variabilities and has become coupled or dependent on other functions, increasing the possibility of accidents. This analysis method can provide OSH professionals with practical techniques for explaining what is happening in a complex socio-technical system and how to take proper measures.

다계층·복합구조의 국내 조선소를 대상으로 한 시스템분석기법 적용 방안 연구