Development and Validation of a Multidimensional Self-Report Scale for Safety Consciousness among R&D Worker

The purpose of this study was to develop a self-reported Safety Consciousness measurement tool for researchers in R&D environments and to verify its validity and reliability. Based on prior studies indicating that laboratory accidents are highly related to the lack of individual Safety Consciousness, this study conceptualized Safety Consciousness as a multidimensional psychological construct in which cognitive, attitudinal, normative, and behavioral processes interact. Dimensions, sub-domains, and items were first derived through literature review, and content validity was examined by experts using the CVR method. Subsequently, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and reliability testing were conducted using data collected from 839 responses through an online survey. A six-point Likert scale was adopted, and EFA, CFA, discriminant/convergent validity, and Cronbach’s α were reviewed to secure validity. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the model fit indices satisfied recommended thresholds, and Cronbach’s α values were also above .90 for all factors. The final Safety Consciousness measurement tool consisted of three dimensions, seven sub-domains, and twenty-one items. This tool is expected to be applicable in diverse research and practice areas, including comparing Safety Consciousness levels according to institutional types, research fields, and career stages; evaluating the effectiveness of safety education; assessing the impact of safety policies and programs; and establishing normative reference data for researcher groups.