Improving the algorithm for determining the competence of employees in terms of labor safety

Purpose. To develop an algorithm for identifying the number of employees with a high level of self-confidence and low competence in occupational safety, who pose a threat to the occupational safety and health management system. Methodology. To determine the risk level of the “incompetent employee” hazard in occupational safety and health management systems, a qualitative approach based on a 5  5 matrix was used. The horizontal axis represented the employee’s level of self-confidence, while the vertical axis represented their level of competence, both ranging from 0 to 100 %. A systems approach was used to develop the algorithm for determining employee competence, which examines the model of the relationship between a hazard (an incompetent employee) and a dangerous event (their injury). Findings. An algorithm was developed to identify the number of employees with a high level of self-confidence and low competence in occupational safety. It consists of five steps and involves training to develop risk-oriented thinking in employees, as well as special diagnostics with the involvement of experts. It is proposed that employee self-confidence be determined by comparing the results of assessments for theoretical and practical tasks, given by experts and the trainees themselves, after the risk-oriented thinking training. A risk matrix for unsafe employee actions was developed for occupational safety and health management systems, which accounts for the Dunning–Kruger effect. The competence analysis allowed employees to be divided into five groups: low, medium, significant, high, and highest, which correspond to the developmental stages of a beginner, learner, specialist, professional, and expert. It was found that among the employees involved in the risk-oriented thinking training, 10 % are in the beginner competence stage, of which 1 % have a high level of self-confidence that is not supported by any theoretical or practical occupational safety skills. At the same time, the attitude towards safety among low-competence employees is 0.45, which is a low-level indicator. Overall, the study found that only 6 % of professional employees have an appropriate level of self-confidence, while 30 % of specialist employees are characterized by low self-esteem. Originality. The relationship between an employee’s level of self-confidence, their incompetence in occupational safety, and the level of additional risk in occupational safety and health management systems has been established. Practical value. The practical significance lies in the implementation of a tool for the early identification of employees with a high risk of unsafe actions within occupational safety management systems.