An integrative fuzzy Delphi decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) study on the risk perception-influencing factors

Objectives. Risk perception is one of the factors that can guide human behavior in the workplace. The present study aimed to identify the most important factors affecting risk perception. Methods. This cross-sectional study had three phases. In the first, factors affecting risk perception were extracted based on librarian resources and studies. Then, using the fuzzy Delphi method and based on the expert’s opinion, the most important factors affecting risk perception were identified. Finally, using the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) technique and relying on the opinions of experts, the relationships between these factors were analyzed and their role as cause or effect was determined. Results. Eleven variables were identified as the most important factors influencing risk perception, among which safety knowledge, quality and quantity of safety training, and safety climate had the greatest effect on risk perception with defuzzified scores of 0.826, 0.817 and 0.808, respectively. Seven of the variables had the role of cause and four of them had the role of effect. Experience of accident along with safety climate had the highest interaction with other variables. Conclusion. Precise investigation of risk perception-influencing factors can play an important role in improving risk perception and safe behaviors.