Psychological Testing For Safety: The Neglected Work Of Hug

Hugo Munsterberg is recognized today as the father of industrial psychology, yet he has made many contributions to the field of occupational safety. A review of his life and accomplishments indicates that he pioneered the use of psychological tests to select people less prone to have accidents and developed the concept that it is the responsibility of management to prevent job-related accidents. Although his work began in Germany, Munsterberg came to the US and worked at Harvard. He then became the president of the American Psychological Association and conducted meaningful research on the use of psychology in industrial settings. However, his popularity waned due to outspoken sympathies toward Germany prior to World War I. Much of Munsterberg's pioneering work in safety was carried out at the Boston Elevated Railway Co., where he evaluated the fitness of the company's motormen for their work. His discoveries indicate that many accidents are caused by diminished attention, due to distraction or fatigue. Munsterberg's activities have inspired increased business interest in psychological testing, and other psychologists have expanded on his theories.
Professional Safety. Des Plaines: Nov 1988. Vol. 33, Iss. 11; pg. 13, 6 pgs

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